Between Women: Friendship, Desire, and Marriage in Victorian England : Book Review

In her book, "Between Women: Friendship, Desire, and Marriage in Victorian England," Sharon Marcus delves deep into the intricate dynamics of female relationships during the Victorian era. Through her analysis, Marcus reveals the hidden lives and desires of women during this time, shedding light on their experiences and challenging societal norms.

One central theme explored in the book is the concept of "female communities." Marcus showcases how women navigated the constraints imposed by society by finding solace, support, and companionship within these communities. Female friendships played a crucial role in their lives, serving as vital support systems amidst societal restrictions.

Another significant aspect Marcus examines is desire within these relationships. By delving into the emotional and erotic connections between women, she disrupts traditional narratives about Victorian society. Marcus explores the physical and romantic aspects of female relationships, highlighting how they often defied societal expectations.

Furthermore, Marcus delves into the institution of marriage and its impact on female friendships and desires. She explores the compromises women had to make within marriage, redirecting their desires and suppressing their connections with other women. This analysis brings to light the complexities of women's experiences within the constraints of societal expectations.

"Between Women" presents a thought-provoking and comprehensive exploration of the multifaceted nature of female relationships in Victorian England. Marcus offers insightful analyses that challenge traditional assumptions about gender, desire, and societal expectations. By uncovering the hidden lives and desires of women during this time, the book provides a more nuanced understanding of the experiences of Victorian women.

What are readers saying?

Sharon Marcus' book, "Between Women," has garnered a range of responses from its readers. Some reviewers have lauded the work, praising its perceptive examination of female friendships and the ways in which gender and sexuality shape these relationships. They found Marcus' exploration of the subject matter to be thought-provoking, commending her for challenging traditional notions of female friendships. These readers appreciated the scholarly approach and lauded the book as a valuable resource for those interested in gender studies and feminist theory as it sheds light on historical and cultural aspects of women's relationships.

On the other hand, a significant number of reviewers have found the book to be excessively academic and difficult to engage with. They felt that Marcus relied heavily on theoretical jargon, making it inaccessible to the average reader. Some reviewers noted a lack of a cohesive narrative flow, as the author frequently shifted between different historical periods and examples without clear connections. These readers expressed frustration with the dense writing style and desired a more approachable and engaging presentation of the subject matter.

Diversity in examples and perspectives also emerged as a point of contention among reviewers. Some readers felt that Marcus primarily focused on white, middle-class women, neglecting a more comprehensive exploration of female friendships across various cultures and social classes. This lack of inclusivity and intersectional analysis disappointed readers who were seeking a broader perspective.

Furthermore, several reviewers found the book repetitive, with similar ideas and examples recurring throughout the text. This repetition made the reading experience tedious for some, leading them to believe that better editing could have improved the book.

In summary, "Between Women" offers a scholarly examination of female friendships and how gender and sexuality influence them. While some readers appreciated the insightful analysis, others considered it excessively academic and lacking in diversity. Notwithstanding its strengths, the book received criticism for its repetitive nature and disjointed narrative structure.

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