The popular novel is thought to have contributed to the use of the term “Boston marriage,” though James never used the phrase in his book. They form a partnership and move in with one another, but when Verena decides to marry Olive’s cousin the relationship falls apart. The novel, which pokes fun at independent women, features a relationship between Verena Tarrant, an outspoken feminist, and Olive Chancellor, who becomes fascinated with the fiery speaker. Im starting to doubt myself, if homosexuality should really be that way or its.
In 1885, novelist Henry James explored the phenomenon in his book The Bostonians. Eligible respondents were male, 1822 years old, gay or bisexual.
But since they did so with other women, their activities were deemed socially acceptable. These independent women pushed the boundaries of what society deemed acceptable for women by attending college, finding careers and living outside their parents’ home. A group of New England women took this concept one step further by “getting married.” Though they didn’t commit to one another legally, they combined households, lived together and supported one another for the long term.
