THE PROFESSOR

Headmistress Reuter and male teacher Crimsworth enjoy a flirtatious relationship until Crimsworth falls in love with a student teacher at a boarding school for young ladies. Then Reuter's jealousy becomes calculating and threatening. Set in Brussels, the tale deals with relationships, power struggles and the chauvinism inherent in society of that era. Stevenson, an unlikely choice for a male viewpoint, is lyrical for Crimsworth but does little to enhance Brontë's story. Too much French may leave listeners feeling left out and confused about the story line. Considered a classic, this one should be read and not heard. G.D.W. © AudioFile 2000, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/MAY 00]