Washington Square

Interesting Facts

• The book was inspired by a true story Henry James heard from his friend Fanny Kemble, a renowned actress and writer.
• The novel explores the theme of conflict between personal desires and societal expectations, which was relevant during the Victorian era.
• The main character, Catherine Sloper, is considered one of the most complex and layered female characters in literature of that time.
• The book has been adapted into several stage plays and films, including the well-known 1949 adaptation "The Heiress" starring Olivia de Havilland.
• The novel is noted for its psychological realism and detailed depiction of the characters' inner worlds, which became a hallmark of Henry James's style.