Daddy-Long-Legs

Summary

Daddy-Long-Legs is a novel by American author Jean Webster, telling the story of a young girl named Jerusha Abbott, who grows up in an orphanage. She receives a unique opportunity to attend college thanks to a mysterious benefactor, whom she knows only as «Daddy-Long-Legs» due to the long shadows she once saw. In exchange for this generosity, Jerusha must write him letters about her life and studies, without expecting a reply. Over time, these letters become Jerusha's main outlet for expressing her thoughts on growing up, education, dreams, and first love. The book is filled with warmth, humor, and a sensitive look at the challenges of growing up and finding one's own path in life.

Main Ideas

• Charity and the dream of a better life
• The importance of education and self-development
• Overcoming difficulties with optimism and humor
• The influence of the past on personal development
• Building bridges between different social classes
• The role of mentorship and support in human relationships
• Turning dreams into reality through patience and perseverance

Historical Context and Significance

Daddy-Long-Legs is a novel by American author Jean Webster, published in 1912. The book is a significant work of the early 20th century, reflecting the social changes of the time, particularly views on marriage, women's education, and their role in society. By telling the story of a young girl raised in an orphanage who gets a chance at education thanks to an unknown benefactor, Webster conveys ideas about the importance of independence, education, and personal growth. This book has become a classic of children's literature, beloved by generations of readers, and has influenced the development of the novel genre in an educational context. The work has been adapted into several films and theatrical productions, further cementing its popularity and significance in cultural heritage.

Main Characters and Their Development

• Jerusha Abbott - an orphanage ward who attends college thanks to an anonymous sponsor she calls «Daddy-Long-Legs». Throughout her education, she overcomes social barriers and develops as a person and writer.
• Jervis Pendleton - «Daddy-Long-Legs», Jerusha's sponsor. A wealthy, educated man who eventually falls in love with Jerusha.

Style and Technique

Daddy-Long-Legs by Jean Webster is characterized by a cheerful and heartfelt narrative that immerses the reader in the atmosphere of the early 20th century. The main feature of the work is its form - most of the novel is presented in the form of letters from the main character to her unseen benefactor. The literary style of the book is lively, sincere, and humorous. The author employed the epistolary novel technique, which allows for a deeper exploration of the characters' inner worlds. Webster's prose is filled with optimism and a love for life, making her works appealing to readers of all ages. The structure of the book allows readers to observe the heroine's development, her views, and opinions, which change as she grows and learns.

Interesting Facts

• The book is written in the form of an epistolary novel, meaning it is composed of letters.
• The main character, Jerusha Abbott, is an orphan who gets the chance to attend college thanks to a mysterious benefactor.
• Jerusha calls her benefactor «Daddy-Long-Legs» because of his tall stature and because she only saw him once in shadow.
• In her letters, Jerusha describes her daily life, studies, and personal experiences.
• The book touches on themes of women's education and emancipation in the early 20th century.
• The story is filled with humor and warmth, making it appealing to readers of all ages.
• The book has been adapted into several films, musicals, and theatrical productions.

Book Review

Daddy-Long-Legs by Jean Webster is a touching and inspiring story about orphan Jerusha Abbott, who gets the chance to attend college thanks to a mysterious benefactor. Critics note that the novel's letter format gives it a special intimacy and allows for a deeper understanding of the main character's inner world. Jerusha, or Judy as she prefers to call herself, is presented to the reader as a smart, witty, and independent girl whose letters are full of humor and vitality. Critics also emphasize that the book addresses important themes of self-discovery, education, and women's emancipation, making it relevant even today. Webster succeeds in creating a warm and heartfelt atmosphere that leaves readers with a sense of hope and belief in a better future.