Description
“GENEVRA; OR, THE HISTORY OF A PORTRAIT” by AN AMERICAN LADY is a one-volume book published in Philadelphia in 1851 by T. B. PETERSON. The book is dedicated to MARIE DE CARVALLO, a Ministeress from Chili, as a token of admiration and esteem. The story begins with two friends, Clarence and Augustus, in Rome, preparing for a drive to the Campagna. Clarence is in a bad mood and not interested in sightseeing. They visit the Coliseum, where Clarence is lost in thoughts of ancient gladiators. They then visit the studio of Signor Carrara, an artist, where they see a portrait of a Viennese lady named Genevra Sfonza. The artist speaks highly of Genevra’s beauty and character. Clarence becomes intrigued by the portrait and wishes to see the original. The narrative shifts to Clarence’s experiences during the carnival in Rome, where he witnesses horse races and a masquerade ball. The book explores themes of beauty, art, and human nature through the interactions of the characters and their surroundings. The middle of the book describes the protagonist’s life at a boarding school in Vienna. The protagonist, Genevra, makes friends with Inez and Blanche, who are talented musicians. Genevra receives unexpected gifts and kind gestures from benefactors. The girls form a close bond and support each other through their studies. As time passes, Inez and Blanche leave the school to pursue their musical careers, leaving Genevra feeling lonely. Eventually, Genevra also leaves the school and embarks on a journey to Naples with her teacher, Monsieur Belmont. The journey is filled with scenic views and reflections on life. Genevra arrives in Naples and meets Madame Bonni, who is impressed by Genevra’s singing talent. Madame Bonni expresses her belief that Genevra will become a great singer. The chapter ends with Genevra showcasing her singing skills to Madame Bonni. The middle section of the book delves into the past of Monsieur de Serval, revealing a tragic tale of betrayal and loss. His mother, a gentle and beloved figure, was mistreated and ultimately killed by his father’s conniving governess. Monsieur de Serval’s siblings also suffered under her rule, with his younger brother dying under suspicious circumstances. The narrative highlights the impact of these events on Monsieur de Serval’s life, shaping his views on love, family, and society. The story unfolds with themes of deception, manipulation, and the enduring power of love and memory. I personated the friend and companion of Ajesha. Nina accompanies her into captivity, but is finally redeemed by her friends, and returns home. The music of the farewell scene between Ajesha and Nina was very sweet; when they bid each other adieu, and sing, ＆We have been friends together in sunlight and in tears;＊ and we mutually felt indeed we had been friends together. The queen enthusiastically applauded, clapping her hands like a girl; and bouquets were promiscuously showered upon us from all parts of the house: two wreaths were cast at our feet by the king and queen. The coincidence struck me, it was on a similar occasion, the night of my debut in that theatre, that the wreath had been thrown me; not by royalty, but by one whose gemmed, singular face had strangely haunted me since, and as we both uplifted our eyes to the royal box, who should I see gazing on me behind their majesties, but the same face, the same large liquid eyes that had magnetised mine two months before. My astonishment was so great, I could scarcely recollect myself enough to step backward as the heavy drop curtain fell. Who could that man be accompanying the royal family? and apparently on familiar terms with them. I could not doubt it was the very same one, the donor of the diamonded wreath, those beautiful flowers I had preserved for so many days with so much care, who seemed to regard me with an air of so much interest
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