The Invisible Woman summary

Nelly's Unfortunate Circumstances

In the compelling biography The Invisible Woman, Claire Tomalin recounts the tragic life of Ellen Ternan, better known as Nelly. Born into a family of fading artists in the early 19th century, Nelly was forced to take on work in the theater at a young age. Encouraged by her mother, Fanny, who saw the theatre as their ticket to stability, she met, at the age of 18, the successful, albeit married, writer Charles Dickens on one of her acting gigs.

Succumbing to the alluring pull of Dickens's popularity and charm, Nelly became his mistress, an affair that was to mar the rest of her life. Her relationship with Dickens was kept a secret due to Victorian societal norms, and maintained even after Dickens's divorce from his wife. This clandestine affair had Nelly bear the brunt of societal disapproval and isolation, leading her into living an invisible life.

Impacts of the Affair

Tomalin takes us on a journey through Nelly's life with Dickens, a complicated relationship that was confidential yet increasingly demanding. Dickens, a vivacious social figure, penned letters symbolizing his profound affection for her, further bringing to light the depth of their relationship which went on for 13 years, many spent together in France to escape societal scrutiny. Nelly was left at the mercy of Dickens's hefty social standing, often obliged to hide while he appeared in public for his readings.

However, the secrecy required of their relationship didn't sit well with Nelly, leading her to contemplate a life away from Dickens. After his death in 1870, Nelly saw an opportunity to escape the silent agony of living in the shadows. She moved to Margate with her mother, seeking a fresh start.

Nelly's Quest for Normality

With Dickens's passing, Nelly was faced with the challenge of redefining her identity outside of being his mistress. She took on the pseudonym of Mrs. Robinson and strived for a normal life, marrying George Wharton Robinson, an Oxford undergrad twelve years her junior. She bore him two children and lived a life of pain and deception, concealing her past as Dickens's mistress.

However, the guilt and embarrassment regarding her past haunted her; she tore pages from books, cut out newspaper articles, and did all she could to erase any evidence linking her to her past. Nonetheless, her concealed life caught up with her when her son discovered letters, hinting the truth.

Reflections on Nelly's Tale

Tomalin paints a poignant, heartfelt picture of Nelly's struggle - her fight not only for financial stability but for love, acceptance, and dignity in Victorian society's rigidity. The biography unravels the implications of living an invisible life, highlighting the unseen cost women like Nelly paid for secret affairs in a judgmental society.

Lastly, The Invisible Woman reminds us that Nelly, like many others in her position, was a victim of societal norms that chose to shroud her existence rather than acknowledge it. Despite the tragically short life she led, her tale of resilience and pursuit of normality amidst adversity stands out, piercing the veil of her invisibility.