Maurice is a groundbreaking novel by E.M. Forster, exploring themes of love, identity, and societal constraints in early 20th-century England. Written in 1913–1914 but published posthumously in 1971, the novel follows Maurice Hall, a young man navigating his emotions and desires in a world where same-sex love is considered unacceptable.
From his early years at school to his time at Cambridge and beyond, Maurice struggles with his attraction to men, first experiencing heartbreak in a failed relationship with his friend Clive Durham. However, his journey leads him to a passionate and transformative romance with Alec Scudder, a working-class gamekeeper. Defying societal expectations, Maurice chooses love over convention, making the novel a powerful statement on the possibility of happiness and authenticity despite societal repression.
Forster, who himself lived in a time when homosexuality was criminalized, wrote Maurice as an act of hope, ensuring it would have a rare, optimistic ending—a bold departure from the tragic narratives often associated with LGBTQ+ literature of the time.
Why Read This Book
- A pioneering LGBTQ+ novel that was ahead of its time in depicting same-sex love.
- Offers a poignant critique of class divisions and social expectations in Edwardian England.
- Written with Forster’s signature elegance, blending romance, introspection, and social commentary.
- Features a rare happy ending for a same-sex love story, challenging conventional narratives.
- A must-read for those interested in classic literature, queer history, and themes of personal authenticity.
About the Author
E.M. Forster (1879–1970) was a British novelist, essayist, and critic known for his sharp social observations and humanistic storytelling. His major works, including A Room with a View, Howards End, and A Passage to India, explore themes of class, love, and repression in British society. Forster, who was gay, chose not to publish Maurice during his lifetime due to the prevailing legal and social climate. His legacy continues to inspire readers, particularly for his nuanced portrayals of human relationships and his advocacy for personal freedom and tolerance.
Descriptions are sourced from publishers or third parties and are not independently verified.
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