People like That: A Novel

A work of fiction written in the early 20th century. The narrative introduces us to the protagonist, who is a 26-year-old independent woman, living in an old-fashioned house in Scarborough Square, a neighborhood that her friends find peculiar and undesirable. She relishes her newfound freedom and ownership of her living space, which contrasts sharply with her past experiences of living in the households of others. The opening of the novel establishes the protagonist's character and her quest for autonomy. She reflects on her decision to live in a less fashionable area, despite the criticism from her peers. Her interactions with Mrs. Mundy, her kind caretaker, reveal her struggle to articulate her reasons for this choice—independence, freedom, and a desire to truly see and understand the lives of those around her. Additionally, as she encounters her friend Kitty, who disapproves of her living arrangement, the protagonist's determination to forge her own path becomes evident. The introductory chapters foreshadow her exploration of both personal and social dimensions of life in Scarborough Square, setting up a framework for her encounters with various characters that will challenge her views and understanding of human relationships and societal boundaries.