Egoist

The Egoist is a captivating tragi-comical novel by George Meredith, first published in 1879. It tells the story of the self-absorbed Sir Willoughby Patterne and his tumultuous journey through love and marriage. After being jilted by his first fiancée, Sir Willoughby finds himself torn between the sentimental Laetitia Dale and the fiercely independent Clara Middleton. However, the heart of the narrative lies in Claras struggle to break free from her engagement to Sir Willoughby, who views women merely as reflections of himself and is baffled by her reluctance to marry him. Through its rich characterizations and sharp social commentary, The Egoist explores the challenges faced by women in Victorian society, where their bodies and minds are often bartered between fathers and husbands to strengthen male alliances. (Summary from Wikipedia)