This outstanding novel, with its vividly drawn characters, realistic setting, and its extended time frame over several generations, invites inquiry in a number of ways.

Are social forces besetting the characters beyond or somewhat within their control? How do the various characters cope with problems in their lives, and what are their points of interconnection with the outside world? What individual qualities does the author appear to support? What is unique about Lawrence's treatment of the popular saga novel? Much critical literature has been written about Lawrence's views on social class, politics, religion, and treatment of women in fiction, and this relatively early book provides a number of instances where Lawrence seems to be testing ideas that get fuller treatment in later novels. Finally, Lawrence is famous for taking the novel further into the psychological realities of every day life than previous novelists; critical inquiry into...