Margaret Oliphant, "A Story of A Wedding Tour" (prob. written 1870s; published 1898)

1. What is ironic about the title? What is this story ostensibly about?

2. How is the heroine described? What attitude toward her does the narrator convey?

3. What financial information about the characters places them for us in the social scale?

4. What do you make of the frequent use of the word "little"?

5. How would you describe the story's style and point of view?

6. How are the Midhursts and Mr. Rosendale described? Are any of their actions blameable?

7. What do we learn about Mr. Rosendale's point of view? Are aspects of his portrayal stereotyped?

8. What are unusual features of the plot? Why do you think so much is made of railroad travel?

9. How does the protagonist respond to the death of her husband? Does she feel regret? Do you think she was indeed partly responsible for his death?

10. May this story be read as a commentary on marriage practices of its time? Do you think its account of Janey's life in southern France is a realistic one?

11. How would you describe the tone of the ending? Of the story? Do you think it is altogether consistent?

12. Does this story have a moral? Do the characters receive their fitting reward? Would you describe the ending as cheerful or troubled?

13. Do you believe this is a good story? On what basis can one make such a judgment?