# The Author's Preface explained — Charlotte Temple

> Chapter companion for Charlotte Temple by Susanna Haswell Rowson.

## What happens

The author explains that this tale is based on a true story told by an old lady who knew Charlotte Temple, though names and places have been changed. She hopes the story will serve as a warning to young, thoughtless women and protect them from the dangers of seduction and betrayal, as well as comfort anxious parents.

## Themes in this chapter

### Seduction and Betrayal

The preface frames the story as a cautionary tale against the seduction and betrayal of young women.

### Female Virtue and Fall

The author emphasizes the importance of female virtue and the tragic consequences of its loss.

## Character check-ins

### Charlotte Temple

The subject of the tale, whose unfortunate fate is recounted as a warning.

## Key lines

> For the perusal of the young and thoughtless of the fair sex, this Tale of Truth is designed; and I could wish my fair readers to consider it as not merely the effusion of Fancy, but as a reality.

This true story is intended for young, careless women, and I hope they see it as fact, not fiction.

_The author establishes the didactic purpose of the novel._

> While the tear of compassion still trembled in my eye for the fate of the unhappy Charlotte, I may have children of my own, said I, to whom this recital may be of use...

Moved by Charlotte's sad story, I thought it could help my own children and other vulnerable young women.

_The author expresses her motivation to write for the benefit of young women._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/charlotte_temple_se/chapters/the-author-s-preface
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/charlotte_temple_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/charlotte_temple_se/chapters