Charles Chesnutt's 'The Wife Of His Youth'

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In the short story, “The Wife of his Youth,” by Charles Chesnutt, the character Mrs. Dixon undergoes a change in thought through realizing love’s true place, which causes her to think less of herself. Mrs. Dixon completely changes her viewpoint as a result of hearing Mr. Ryder’s story. The story explains a man who, although separated from his wife, keeps his love for her. Upon listening to this story, Mrs. Dixon understands the meaning of loyalty and love and how it has obviously impacted Mr Ryder. Realizing Mr. Ryder is speaking of himself when asking if “the man” should acknowledge his previous love, she does not become frustrated or distraught. The text explains, “[Mrs. Dixon] had listened, with parted lips and streaming eyes. She was the

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