A Positive Romance: 1898

A novel written in the late 19th century, specifically in 1898. The book explores themes surrounding the relationships between men and women, particularly focusing on the idealization and reverence of womanhood. It contemplates the dynamics of worship and admiration in gender relations, examining philosophical ideas of Positivism as a lens for understanding this complex interaction. The story revolves around a character named Hammond, who recounts his past involvement with Positivism and a pivotal experience involving his professor, Régnier, who was a disciple of Auguste Comte. Through a series of dialogues, Hammond reflects on what it means for men to idolize women, describing a transformative encounter he had with Régnier's daughter. In this moment, his initial expectations of beauty are turned on their head as he realizes that true worship of womanhood transcends physical appearance, recognizing the deep sacrificial and nurturing essence that women represent. The narrative ultimately serves as a meditation on the ideals of femininity, the nature of love, and how societal frameworks shape personal connections.