The Golden Calf
1883
The Golden Calf, published in 1883 by M. E. Braddon, is a late Victorian novel that examines class dynamics and the struggles of young women in a patriarchal society. The story follows Ida Palliser, a pupil at a boarding school, as she navigates her aspirations for a better life amidst the strictures of Mauleverer Manor and her conflicts with authority. Notable for its exploration of social issues such as poverty and ambition, the novel highlights Ida's defiance and desire for independence in a world that limits opportunities for women.
