Novel
Women of The Damnation of Theron Ware The idea of traditional religion conflicting with the burgeoning cultural, religious and scientific ideals of an evolving society is a theme that exists within many literary works. Harold Frederic’s portrayal of such a theme, as depicted by a young Methodist minister, is evident within The Damnation of Theron Ware. This work demonstrates the strain that such a conflict can wreak upon certain individuals as well the eventual repercussions. Within the piece, Frederic incorporates the use of two differentiated women’s personalities in order to more fully demonstrate the separate ideals between which the title character, Theron Ware, is conflicted. These two women are Alice Ware, the wife of Theron, and Celia Madden, the young woman with whom Theron becomes enamored. Alice Ware married Theron at a young age and has stood by his side ever since. From the beginning of the work, her loyalty to Theron as well as her belief in his talent is evident. Upon learning that Theron’s coveted position at First Church of Tecumsah has been handed to another, Alice cries “And your sermon was head-and-shoulders above all the others!” (10). Yet Alice maintains good spirits as the couple moves to a less highly regarded position in Octavius.