The story begins on the eve of the Civil War and portrays the transformation of Scarlett's life as she navigates the challenges brought by the war, loss of wealth, and societal upheaval. Scarlett's determination and survival instincts drive her actions as she seeks to protect her family and secure her own prosperity in the face of adversity. "Gone with the Wind" provides a vivid depiction of the Southern way of life and explores themes of love, loss, resilience, and the effects of war on individuals and society. It portrays the complex dynamics of relationships, particularly the turbulent romance between Scarlett and Rhett Butler, a charismatic and enigmatic character. The novel also touches upon issues of race and class, depicting the social hierarchy and racial tensions prevalent in the South at that time. It has faced criticism for its romanticized portrayal of slavery and its depiction of Black characters, which reflect the racial attitudes of the era in which it was written. Upon its publication, "Gone with the Wind" became an instant success and won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1937. It was later adapted into a highly acclaimed film in 1939, starring Vivien Leigh as Scarlett O'Hara and Clark Gable as Rhett Butler.