The story in one page
Rose Stanton is a university student who ignores her professor's warning against marrying men with 'passions for principles.' She falls for Rodney Aldrich, but their marriage quickly devolves into a beautiful illusion where Rose has no functional role. Realizing she is merely a well-maintained ornament, she walks out to face 'the world alone.' Rose transitions from a university socialite to a professional chorus girl, eventually saving a failing musical comedy through her talent for costume design and teaching. Only after earning her own living and establishing a reputation as 'Doris Dane' does she return to her family, seeking a relationship based on mutual respect rather than domestic charity.
Who's who
- Rose Stanton
A university student who abandons domestic comfort to find independence.
- Rodney Aldrich
A principled man whose structured domesticity drives his wife away.
- Portia
Rose's sister who sacrificed her own education to support the family.
- Galbraith
A high-end stage director who recognizes Rose's untapped professional potential.
- Dolly
Rose's anemic and struggling roommate during her time on the road.
What it's really about
- Economic Independence
- A woman's identity is tied to her ability to earn.
- Domestic Confinement
- Marriage as a 'Great Illusion' that masks a lack of purpose.
Why it's memorable
- A professor jokingly warns students never to marry men with a passion for principles.
- Rose teaching four sulky chorus girls how to sit and speak like ladies.
The ending, explained
Spoilers — show the ending
After succeeding on her own, Rose returns to Chicago and calls Rodney from a hotel, reuniting with her husband and children on the basis of being a proven friend and equal rather than a dependent.
For your book club
- Does Rose’s abandonment of her children reflect a necessary or a selfish path to autonomy?
- How does the theater environment serve as a foil to Rose's former upper-class life?