Glitter and the Gold

An author has always held my captivated audience when describing scenes of aristocratic elegance at the turn of the century. Depictions of society's pomp and tradition, the scintillating jewels and satin gowns women displayed at evening balls, the glimpses of wit and intellect from within the rigid mores of conversation, all invoke a sense of modern romanticism in me. Balsan's autobiographical account growing up within this cultural framework is far from the monotonous recitations of her social soirees that one would expect. Rather, it is a unique unveiling of an independent woman's thoughts, passions and innermost desires often suppressed at the time by social expectations. It's a great dichotomy between the concepts of American Democracy and European Plutocracy, the lingering Victorian conservatism versus the emerging modernism of a new century, and presents a unique vantage of the evolving role of women in Great Britain and America at the time.

The dwindling prominence of Nouveau Riche families and the rise of the middle class in our contemporary society has perhaps encouraged a negative opinion of those in history who "monopolized the economy" of the day and hindered the rise of the average American citizen, while the Vanderbilts and Carnegies built grand estates on Fifth Avenue. I am of the opposite opinion, not because of the romantic images that come to mind, but because of the depth of character we can learn from their personal lives. There are many different lessons that can be taken from their example; entrepreneurship or philanthropy are some of the most recognizable, but in reading Balsan's personal memoirs I come away with more personal illustrations of character.

As a young girl, her involuntary marriage to the Duke of Marlborough is instructive of the importance of virtues such as love, respect and trust in relationships, rather than the convenience of money. The sympathy one feels for her descriptions of the limitations of women at the time imbue a sense of gratitude for the freedom and opportunities we are blessed with today such as the right to vote, the ability to embark on a career or gain an education. Consuelo's life stories highlight the beauty and social benefit of inculcating personal virtues such as perseverance, patience, respect, integrity, selflessness, sincerity, tact and continued intellectual growth. She presents herself honestly and humbly, describing both her achievements and downfalls in life. Consuelo Balsan is a remarkable woman and most worthy of emulation.

If you ever get a chance to travel to England, I would highly suggest visiting Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire. As the Marlborough family palace, Consuelo played a vital role in its history, which is where my intrigue with this American heiress began. Its a gorgeous structure with beautiful rooms, a rich history, and acres of Capability Brown's landscape parkland to explore - a full day's entertainment!