Small Souls

Set in The Hague during the late 1800s, the narrative follows Eline Vere, a sensitive young woman from the upper class grappling with societal expectations and her own emotional turmoil. As she navigates the rigid structures of her social class, Eline's internal struggles reveal the profound impact of unmet desires and psychological angst. Louis Couperus masterfully portrays this period of cultural transformation, offering a deep exploration of the human soul and the quest for personal fulfillment, solidifying the book's status as a classic in Dutch literature.