Fantomina: Or, Love in a Maze

In Eliza Haywood's 1725 novella, Fantomina: Love in a Maze, a beautiful young woman becomes captivated by the superficial charms of a man named Beauplaisir at the theatre. Disguising herself as 'Fantomina' to test his affections, she embarks on a journey through various personas in an effort to reclaim his interest after he dismisses her. This work explores themes of identity, class, and female desire, serving as a sharp critique of societal norms regarding men's treatment of women. Brought to life by Helen Keeley, this underappreciated classic offers a striking commentary on romance and gender dynamics in the eighteenth century.