Thomas Nelson Page 
Old Jabe’s Marital Experiments 
1908

Thomas Nelson Page’s ‘Old Jabe’s Marital Experiments’ is a captivating novel set in the post-Civil War American South. The book delves into themes of race, class, and the complexities of human relationships. Page’s writing style is rich in detail and dialect, providing a vivid portrayal of the Southern society of the time. Through the narrative, Page explores the struggles and triumphs of characters navigating the challenges of love and social norms. The book’s historical context offers valuable insights into the culture and customs of the era, making it a compelling read for those interested in American literature and history. Thomas Nelson Page’s skillful storytelling and nuanced character development make ‘Old Jabe’s Marital Experiments’ a must-read for fans of Southern literature and historical fiction. The book serves as a poignant reflection on the complexities of human nature and the enduring impact of the past on the present.

About the author

Thomas Nelson Page (1853-1922) was an American lawyer and author, best known for his role as one of the foremost proponents of the ‘Plantation tradition’ in Southern literature. Born on April 23, 1853, in Hanover County, Virginia, Page’s upbringing amidst the upheavals of the Civil War and Reconstruction era influenced his nostalgic portrayal of the antebellum South. Page’s works often romanticized the lives of African Americans and the aristocratic class of the Old South, a perspective that reflected and reinforced the attitudes of the Lost Cause movement. His literary style is characterized by a sentimental and elegiac tone, replete with dialect and rich depictions of Southern life. ‘Old Jabe’s Marital Experiments’ is one example of Page’s fiction that uses local color to explore themes of loyalty, heritage, and the societal changes in the South during the late 19th century. Other significant works by Page include ‘Marse Chan’ and ‘In Ole Virginia’, both of which contributed to his reputation for idealizing Southern antebellum culture. Though Page’s work was popular in his time, modern criticism often focuses on the inherent racial issues and the perpetuation of stereotypes in his writing. Throughout his life, Page practiced law, engaged in diplomacy as the U.S. ambassador to Italy, and wrote extensively, leaving behind a legacy that provides valuable insights into the cultural narratives of the postbellum American South.