Coelebs in Search of a Wife

Coelebs in Search of a Wife, published in 1808 by Hannah More, is a didactic novel that follows Charles, a wealthy bachelor, as he seeks a suitable wife after the death of his parents. The narrative explores themes of love, marriage, and societal expectations, emphasizing the importance of moral character and personal compatibility. This work is notable for being one of the first 19th-century novels embraced by the religious reading public, combining fiction with moral and religious lessons. More's portrayal of the complexities of courtship and the attributes of a good partner reflects the values of her time.