The Fortunate Mistress (Parts 1 and 2) or a History of the Life of Mademoiselle de Beleau Known by the Name of the Lady Roxana   By: Daniel Defoe (1661?-1731)

Daniel Defoe’s novel, which consists of two parts collectively known as "The Fortunate Mistress" or "A History of the Life of Mademoiselle de Beleau Known by the Name of the Lady Roxana," is a tale that delves into the complexities of a woman's life in seventeenth-century Europe.

The protagonist, Roxana, is a captivating character whose upbringing and circumstances lead her down a path tinged with both fortune and misfortune. Through her first-person narrative, we are invited into Roxana's world, where she skillfully navigates a society filled with manipulation, deceit, and desire.

Defoe's writing style is both engaging and thought-provoking, as he explores themes such as gender roles, power dynamics, and the masks individuals wear in order to survive in a society dictated by wealth and social status. Through Roxana's voice, we witness her transformation from a naive and hopeful young woman to a resourceful and cunning mistress who adapts to her surroundings in order to secure her own survival.

The novel's strength lies in its complexity and psychological depth. Roxana is far from the stereotypical damsel in distress; she uses her beauty, intellect, and wit to her advantage, often outshining her male counterparts. Defoe paints a vivid portrait of a woman who is simultaneously a victim of her circumstances and a master of her own fate.

One of the most intriguing aspects of the story is the exploration of Roxana's conflicting desires for love, stability, and freedom. As she moves through a series of relationships and marriages, she grapples with her own moral compass, constantly questioning whether her actions are justified or merely self-serving. This internal struggle adds a layer of complexity to Roxana's character, keeping readers engaged and invested in her journey.

However, the novel's length and occasional digressions may be a deterrent to some readers. Defoe has a tendency to delve into tangents, providing detailed descriptions that are not always necessary for the progression of the plot. While these diversions may showcase his skill as a writer, they can also become tiresome and disrupt the flow of the narrative.

Overall, "The Fortunate Mistress" or "A History of the Life of Mademoiselle de Beleau Known by the Name of the Lady Roxana" is a compelling and thought-provoking novel that offers a unique perspective on the life of a woman in seventeenth-century Europe. Defoe's exploration of gender, power, and survival showcases his skill as a storyteller, making this book a worthwhile read for those interested in historical fiction with a strong female protagonist.

First Page:

In March, 1724, was published the narrative in which Defoe came, perhaps even nearer than in Moll Flanders , to writing what we to day call a novel, namely: The Fortunate Mistress; or, a History of the Life and Vast Variety of Fortunes of Mademoiselle de' Belau; afterwards called the Countess of Wintelsheim, in Germany... Continue reading book >>