Love: The novel explores different types of love, including romantic love, familial love, and love of self. Polly I falls in love with a man who is eventually killed in the French Revolution, while Polly II falls in love with a married man who is unable to leave his wife. Polly III falls in love with a man who is eventually revealed to be a murderer. Despite the challenges they face, all three women find love and fulfillment in their lives.
Loss: The novel also explores the theme of loss. Polly I loses her husband and children to the French Revolution, while Polly II loses her lover to his wife. Polly III loses her father and brother to murder. Despite the losses they experience, all three women find strength and resilience in the face of adversity.
Search for meaning: The novel explores the theme of the search for meaning in life. Polly I finds meaning in her work as a nurse, while Polly II finds meaning in her relationships with her children. Polly III finds meaning in her work as a writer. All three women find fulfillment in their lives by finding meaning in their experiences and pursuits.
The Three Century Women is a thought-provoking novel that explores a variety of universal themes through the lives of three very different women. The novel is a celebration of the human spirit and a reminder that love, hope, and resilience are essential to a meaningful life.