In “The Consequences of Marrying a Deceased Wife's Sister,” Felicia Skene intricately navigates the complex social and moral dilemmas surrounding marital unions that defy Victorian conventions. Skene employs a realist style characterized by nuanced character development and rich dialogue, embodying the tensions of love, duty, and societal expectation. The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of late 19th-century England, where the legality of such marriages was a contentious topic, reflecting broader discussions on women's rights and familial obligations. Felicia Skene was not only a writer but also a social reformer deeply engaged with issues surrounding marriage and women's roles in society. Her own experiences and observations, coupled with the legal battles of her contemporaries, inspired her to address the implications of laws governing marriage. Skene's background as a pioneer for women's rights provided her with a unique perspective that is imbued in her writing, making her work both a reflection and a critique of her time. This provocative novel offers readers an insightful exploration of love's complexities in an era constrained by rigid societal norms. Its exploration of the human condition and moral inquiries makes it a compelling read for anyone interested in the intersections of law, society, and personal desire.
