One common theme is class differences. In many historical romances like 'Pride and Prejudice', Elizabeth and Darcy face problems due to their different social standings. Another theme is misunderstandings. Couples often misinterpret each other's actions or words, which leads to trouble in their marriage. For example, in 'The Viscount Who Loved Me', Kate and Anthony have misunderstandings that create marital strife.
A major theme is family interference. In historical settings, families often had a say in marriages. In novels like 'Sense and Sensibility', the Dashwood sisters' relationships are affected by their families' expectations and actions. Also, secrets play a big role. Characters may keep secrets from their spouses, as seen in 'Rebecca' where the new wife discovers secrets about her husband's first marriage that cause problems in their relationship. Moreover, social expectations are a theme. Couples have to conform to the norms of society, and when they deviate, it causes trouble in their marriage, like in 'Anna Karenina' where Anna's actions go against the social mores of her time and affect her marriage.
In these novels, the theme of betrayal can be common. It could be in the form of emotional or physical betrayal. For instance, in some stories, a character may find out that their spouse has been unfaithful or has betrayed their trust in other ways. Another theme is the struggle for power within the marriage. In historical times, men usually held more power, but in some novels, the female characters try to assert themselves, which causes friction. Also, the theme of unrequited love or lost love from the past can create trouble in a current marriage. For example, a character may still be in love with someone from their past, and this affects their relationship with their current spouse.
One common theme is the struggle for power within the relationship. Couples might fight over who makes decisions. Another theme is the clash of personal dreams. For instance, one wants to travel the world while the other wants to settle down immediately. And then there is the theme of in - law problems. In - laws can cause a lot of stress and trouble in a marriage as seen in many of these novels.
One common theme is miscommunication. Couples often misunderstand each other's intentions, leading to bigger problems. Another is external interference, like in - laws causing trouble. And there's also the theme of growing apart, where the two people in the marriage have different life goals as time passes.
The idea of redemption or self - discovery is also common. Through the relationship, the characters often learn more about themselves. Maybe one character was jaded by a past experience and through the marriage of convenience, they find a new purpose or a better version of themselves. This self - growth is intertwined with the development of their relationship.
One common theme is the struggle against societal norms. In these novels, the characters are often forced into marriage due to family, social status or political reasons. They have to fight against the expectations placed on them.
One common theme is the initial resistance to the arranged marriage. Often, the protagonists don't want to be forced into a union, but as the story progresses, they start to see the good in each other. For example, in many novels, the hero and heroine might start off bickering but then gradually fall in love.
A good 'Marriage in Trouble Historical Romance Novel' is 'North and South' by Elizabeth Gaskell. The main characters, Margaret Hale and John Thornton, have a relationship that is fraught with difficulties. Their different social classes and beliefs put a strain on their relationship which is set in a historical industrial England. Another one could be 'The Scarlet Pimpernel' by Baroness Emmuska Orczy. The relationship between Marguerite and Percy has elements of a troubled marriage, with misunderstandings and political intrigue in the historical French Revolution setting.
One common theme is the transformation of the relationship. Initially, it's a practical arrangement, but as the story progresses, love often blossoms. For example, in many Regency - era novels, the couple may start off as strangers brought together by family or financial reasons.
One common theme is love conquering all. In major romance novels, marriage is often the result of a deep, passionate love that overcomes obstacles like family disapproval or social differences. For example, in Romeo and Juliet (which can be considered a sort of proto - romance novel), their love led them to a secret marriage despite their families' feud.
One common theme is rediscovery. Couples often rediscover each other, like in 'The Viscount Who Loved Me' where the characters learn new things about their spouses and fall in love all over again.
One common theme is miscommunication. In these novels, the married couple often misunderstands each other's intentions, which leads to a lot of angst. For example, one might think the other doesn't care when in fact they are just bad at expressing themselves.