Umatilla Public Library
Your Hometown Library
Literary Society Reads:
The Tenant of Wildfell Hall
Discover timeless tales with the Umatilla Literary Society's Classics Book Club, where we explore the enduring stories that have shaped literature. This term we will read a classic that sometimes gets forgotten, Ann Brontë's "The Tenant of Wildfell Hall." From August 2025 through November 2025 we will read approximately 15 chapters a month. Discover this lost treasurer of 19th Century Women's Literature.
The first five to pre-register at the library may check-out a paperback copy long-term, for the duration of the book club. A digital copy is available here: https://mylakelibrary.overdrive.com/media/433295. ​
​November Discussion: Chapters 48-End
Focus: Helen's escape, her life at Wildfell Hall, and the resolution of the narrative.
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Discussion Points:
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Helen's Bravery: Discuss Helen's decision to leave Arthur and the radical nature of this act for a woman of her time. What does this decision reveal about her strength of character?
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Motherhood and Protection: How central is Helen's role as a mother to her decisions and her determination to protect her son?
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Redemption and Forgiveness: Discuss the return of Arthur Huntingdon and the complex emotions surrounding his illness and death. Does Helen achieve a form of redemption or forgiveness?
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Gilbert's Role Revisited: How does Gilbert's understanding of Helen evolve by the end of the novel? Do you find his perspective to be fully aligned with yours?
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Novel's Message: What do you believe are the key messages Anne Brontë intended to convey through The Tenant of Wildfell Hall? How relevant are these messages today?
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Final Thoughts: Did the ending satisfy you? What lingering questions or thoughts do you have about the characters or the story?
Breakdown was suggested by AI: Gemini.