Mathilde Möhring is one of the early novels to present women's capacity to shape their own destiny, and is recognized as a novel exemplifying the emancipation of women. Mathilde Möhring grew up in poverty. Living with her mother, the decision is made to take a lodger. When Hugo presents himself, the mother is and remains doubtful, but Mathilde musters him and decides that he is the right man, not just for the room. Hugo Großmann is a student, and throughout the novel described as lacking in the ability to care well for himself. Mathilde Möhring takes it upon herself to "groom" Hugo, and it is with her support and prodding that Hugo takes up the post of mayor in a village. However, after a short while, he contracts pneumonia and dies. This setback makes Mathilde all the more determined to make something of her life. She focusses on her old ambition to study and become a teacher, thus being able to provide for herself.

Mathilde Möhring was never published during Theodor Fontane's life time. It appeared pothumously. ( )