The Story of an African Farm

Set against the backdrop of the South African frontier in the 1860s, the narrative follows the lives of two cousins, Em and Lydia, as they navigate a lonely, Bible-influenced farm. Em is content and nurturing, while Lydia is intellectually restless and beautiful, facing a tragic fate. Their lives are further complicated by a domineering Irishman who affects their stepmother's influence. The story intertwines themes of isolation, gender roles, and social issues, drawing parallels to Schreiner's own experiences advocating for the marginalized.