Women's Rights

Politics is a major theme throughout the novel, and one of the most important threads is that of women’s rights. For Maud and Ethel, the right to vote and join in politics drives many of their actions throughout the novel.

First, Maud is a liberal who has always believed that women should have the right to vote. When she is introduced in Fitz’ first section, he worries that she will present these views to King George V. Maud even falls in love with Walter because he listens to her views when other men, such as Lloyd George, tell her that women could not possibly understand politics. This, along with the war, is what pushes Maud to start The Soldier’s Wife with Ethel. She believes wholeheartedly in her mission as shown by her elation when Parliament considers a new bill to give women the...