The Rainbow chronicles three generations of Brangwens living near Marsh Farm. Sexually stormy marriages set the stage for conflict and power struggles within the home. Tradition, passion, children, and compromise define the Brangwen clan, giving its members both happiness and sadness. Ursula Brangwen, the granddaughter of the original Brangwens, takes on the pressures of her upbringing in order to experience life and love on her own terms. The Brangwen family has lived at Marsh Farm for many generations. The family has a long established connection with the earth. When Tom Brangwen inherits the farm, he wants to add excitement to his life by marrying Lydia, a recent widow, and a Polish exile. Lydia has a daughter, Anna, from her previous marriage. Tom and Lydia's marriage is distant and silent. They do not understand each other, but have a strong sexual connection. During Lydia's pregnancy with Tom's children, Tom and Anna bond. Tom and Anna remain extremely close throughout her childhood. When Anna grows up, Tom has a difficult time dealing with Anna's marriage to his nephew, Will. Tom objects to Will and Anna's marriage at first, but eventually agrees to help them out.