Behind a Mask, or A Woman Power

Louisa May Alcott was an American novelist. According to literary fiction and researchers, she has introduced the phrase "the curse of the mummy." During the Civil War she served as a nurse in a military hospital in Georgetown. In 1863, in revised form it was published letters to relatives that she sent from the hospital, and this book has brought her first fame.

'Behind a Mask, or A Woman Power' is a controversial novella by Louisa May Alcott that was initially published in 1866. The plot of the novella is focused upon Jean Muir, who works as a governess for one of the rich families of Coventry. She employs intrigues and manipulation to gain success in the society, starting from the family she works for.