The coquette. The Coquette Aesthetic: What is it and how to achieve the look 2023 2022-10-30

The Coquette is a novel written by Hannah Webster Foster and published in 1797. It tells the story of Eliza Wharton, a young woman who is courted by two men: Mr. Boyer, a wealthy merchant, and Colonel Townsend, a military man.

Eliza is a coquette, a term used to describe a woman who flirts and plays with the affections of men for her own pleasure or gain. At the beginning of the novel, Eliza is aware of her attractiveness and enjoys the attention of both men. However, as the novel progresses, Eliza becomes torn between her desire for social status and financial security, and her true feelings for Colonel Townsend.

As Eliza struggles to choose between the two men, she becomes increasingly manipulative and selfish, ultimately causing heartbreak and tragedy for all those involved. The novel serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of leading others on and the importance of being true to one's own feelings and values.

The Coquette is significant because it was one of the first novels written by a woman in the United States. It was also unusual at the time because it depicted the inner thoughts and feelings of a woman, rather than just portraying her as a passive object of male desire.

Overall, The Coquette is a compelling and thought-provoking read that explores the complexities of love, desire, and self-esteem. It serves as a reminder of the importance of being honest and true to oneself, and the consequences that can arise from manipulating others for personal gain.