Author
William Makepeace Thackeray
1811-1863
William Makepeace Thackeray (1811-1863) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by William Makepeace Thackeray
Vanity Fair
"Vanity Fair" by William Makepeace Thackeray is a novel published serially from 1847 to 1848. Set during and after the Napoleonic Wars, it follows two contrasting women: the cunning, ambitious Becky Sharp, who schemes her way through society despite having no money, and the gentle, wealthy Amelia Sedley. Subtitled "A Novel without a Hero," this satirical work deconstructs traditional ideas of heroism while exposing the vanities and pretensions of early 19th-century British society through an unreliable narrator who frames the story as a puppet show.
The Comic Almanack, Volume 2 An Ephemeris in Jest and Earnest, Containing Merry Tales, Humerous Poetry, Quips, and Oddities
"The Comic Almanack, Volume 2" by Thackeray, À Beckett, Mayhew, Mayhew, and Smith is a humorous collection written during the mid-19th century. This volume serves as an anthology of wit, satire, and comic relief, featuring various anecdotes, poetry, and illustrations that reflect on societal norms and events of the time. It likely combines insights on politics and everyday life with a lighthearted approach, intending to entertain and provoke thought. The beginning of this almanack introduces a range of humorous topics and light-hearted takes on serious subjects, including a satirical examination of Parliament and the economy, offering simple yet witty rules for interpreting legislative acts and navigating financial advice. Among the amusing content are discussions on emigration, gardening, predictions, and humorous societal observations, all embellished with illustrations meant to enhance the comedic effect. The opening portions effectively set the tone for a playful exploration of contemporary issues, engaging the reader with a clever mix of jest and insightful commentary.
The Newcomes: Memoirs of a Most Respectable Family
"The Newcomes: Memoirs of a Most Respectable Family" by William Makepeace Thackeray is a novel published in 1854-1855. The story follows Colonel Thomas Newcome, a virtuous man, and his son Clive, who aspires to become a painter despite family disapproval. Spanning generations and continents, the novel traces the Newcome family's rise to wealth and respectability while exploring themes of marriage for money and social ambition. Set in Victorian England, it offers rich cultural detail of the era.
The History of Pendennis, Volume 2 His Fortunes and Misfortunes, His Friends and His Greatest Enemy
"The History of Pendennis, Volume 2" by William Makepeace Thackeray is a novel published between 1848-1850. This bildungsroman follows young Arthur Pendennis as he navigates London society, pursuing literary ambitions while entangled in romantic complications. From flirtations with the manipulative Blanche Amory to an innocent attachment with working-class Fanny Bolton, Pen's choices test his character and threaten family bonds. Meanwhile, his cynical uncle schemes, dark secrets emerge about the Clavering family, and misunderstandings drive wedges between those who love him most.
Barry Lyndon
"Barry Lyndon" by William Makepeace Thackeray is a picaresque novel first published in 1844. An Irish gentleman schemes his way toward English aristocracy through a life of duels, military service, gambling, and seduction. Narrated by the unreliable Barry himself, the story follows his relentless pursuit of wealth and status across war-torn Europe. From fraudulent courtships to strategic marriages, Barry's fortunes rise and fall as ambition collides with fate, leading to a reckoning that strips away his carefully constructed identity.
The History of Henry Esmond, Esq., a Colonel in the Service of Her Majesty Queen Anne
"The History of Henry Esmond, Esq., a Colonel in the Service of Her Majesty Q. Anne" by William Makepeace Thackeray is a historical novel published in 1852. Henry Esmond narrates his life story, beginning as an orphan who becomes a devoted member of the Castlewood family. When he discovers he's the rightful heir to the family estate, he must choose between his inheritance and protecting those he loves. Set against England's tumultuous political landscape, Henry's journey takes him through war, literary circles, and Jacobite intrigue, while navigating complex feelings for his foster-mother and her beautiful daughter Beatrix.
Burlesques
"Burlesques" by William Makepeace Thackeray is a collection of satirical writings and tales that reflects the author's brilliant wit and keen social commentary, likely composed during the mid-19th century. The work includes various pieces with humorous takes on society, literature, and contemporary issues of the time, showcasing Thackeray's unique storytelling style and critique of human nature. At the start of "Burlesques," the reader is introduced to a range of characters and settings through a collection of contents that outlines stories from different authors, demonstrating a playful exploration of various genres and styles. One key tale involves George de Barnwell, who is portrayed as a poetic character caught in a tumultuous struggle between ambition and reality, navigating the complexities of love and societal expectations. The opening sets the stage for a narrative infused with humor and a deeper narrative that addresses timeless themes of desire, morality, and the human condition.
Roundabout Papers
"Roundabout Papers" by William Makepeace Thackeray is a collection of essays and reflections written during the mid-19th century. The work captures Thackeray's keen observations on society, personal experiences, and literature through a variety of vignettes and humorous anecdotes, showcasing his characteristic blend of wit and critical insight. At the start of "Roundabout Papers," Thackeray describes a serene autumn in the quaint town of Chur, Switzerland, where he reflects on the history of the area and the peculiar figure of St. Lucius. The author observes the pastoral life around him, contrasting it with the hustle of modern progress. He introduces a lazy boy absorbed in reading novels and muses on the impact of literature on youth, celebrating the thrill and adventure found in storytelling while cautioning against excess. This opening establishes a contemplative yet humorous tone, inviting readers to engage with Thackeray’s thoughts on reading, youth, and the peculiarities of human nature.
The Book of Snobs
"The Book of Snobs" by William Makepeace Thackeray is a collection of satirical works published in 1848. Originally appearing as weekly pieces in Punch magazine, this sharp social commentary dissects the snobbery permeating Victorian society in England and France. Thackeray skewers those who "give importance to unimportant things" and "meanly admire mean things," examining various social groups with biting wit. The immensely popular work thrust Thackeray into public prominence and helped popularize the very term "snob" itself, establishing what scholars call "the baptism of snobbery."
The Paris Sketch Book of Mr. M. A. Titmarsh; and the Irish Sketch Book
"The Paris Sketch Book of Mr. M. A. Titmarsh and The Irish Sketch Book" by William Makepeace Thackeray is a collection of satirical sketches written in the early 19th century. This work comprises a set of humorous essays that explore various aspects of life in Paris and Ireland, showcasing Thackeray's keen observations on society, culture, and the human condition. The sketches offer a blend of personal anecdotes and social commentary, allowing readers a glimpse into Thackeray's experiences and reflections. At the start of "The Paris Sketch Book," the narrator, Mr. M. A. Titmarsh, provides a humorous dedicatory letter to a Parisian tailor, which sets the tone for the witty and observational nature of the essays that follow. The opening sketch describes the chaotic preparations of a family embarking on a trip from England to France, painting a vivid picture of the human antics and social dynamics involved. Through sharp humor and rich detail, Thackeray introduces readers to the bustling environment of travel and the quirks of his characters, establishing a tone of lighthearted yet critical exploration of society. This opening portion effectively engages the reader's interest and sets the stage for a series of delightful and insightful sketches.
The Virginians
"The Virginians" by William Makepeace Thackeray is a historical novel published in 1857–59. This sequel to "Henry Esmond" follows twin grandsons George and Henry Warrington through turbulent times in both England and colonial Virginia. When George disappears during the Seven Years' War, Henry travels to England as sole heir, only to face scheming relatives and gambling debts. George's miraculous return changes everything, setting the brothers on divergent paths that lead them to opposite sides of the American Revolution—yet their bond endures.
The Rose and the Ring
"The Rose and the Ring" by William Makepeace Thackeray is a satirical fantasy written in 1854. In the fictional kingdoms of Paflagonia and Crim Tartary, four royal cousins find their fates entwined with two magical gifts from the Fairy Blackstick—a ring and a rose that make their wearers irresistibly beautiful. As stolen thrones, mistaken identities, and enchanted love complicate courtly life, princes and princesses must navigate deception, exile, and even a den of lions before discovering their true destinies.
Henry Esmond; The English Humourists; The Four Georges
"Henry Esmond; The English Humourists; The Four Georges" by William Makepeace Thackeray is a historical novel written in the mid-19th century. The book tells the story of Henry Esmond, a young boy navigating life through the complexities of family loyalty, societal expectations, and personal ambition during the tumultuous periods of English history. As Esmond grows, he encounters various notable characters that shape his understanding of honor, love, and duty. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Henry Esmond, a young boy living in Castlewood Hall, who feels lost and uncertain due to his orphan status. The narrative details his first encounters with the new lord and lady of Castlewood, emphasizing Esmond's feelings of solitude and anxiety as he observes the grand, yet unfamiliar, environment that surrounds him. The warmth and kindness of Lady Castlewood and her daughter Beatrix offer him a glimmer of hope, creating a sense of family amidst his uncertainties. As he begins to forge a bond with them, the groundwork is laid for the exploration of his identity and his unfolding adventures in the larger historical context of England.
The History of Pendennis
"The History of Pendennis" by William Makepeace Thackeray is a novel published between 1848-1850. Young Arthur Pendennis leaves his comfortable country home to make his way in London society. Through romantic misadventures, financial missteps, and encounters with rogues and social climbers, Pen navigates the treacherous waters of 19th-century English aristocratic life. Thackeray crafts a satirical bildungsroman featuring memorable characters like the snobbish Major Pendennis and the scheming flirt Blanche Amory, offering sharp insights into human character and the pursuit of fortune.
The Paris Sketch Book of Mr. M. A. Titmarsh
"The Paris Sketch Book of Mr. M. A. Titmarsh" by William Makepeace Thackeray is a collection of humorous sketches written during the mid-19th century. The book provides a vivid portrayal of various aspects of Parisian life, including travel experiences, social commentary, and observations of French culture as seen through the eyes of the protagonist, Mr. M. A. Titmarsh. The narrative blends satire and eye-catching anecdotes that reflect the author's witty style, inviting readers to explore the quirks of a Parisian journey. At the start of the collection, Thackeray introduces the reader to Mr. Titmarsh’s embarkation on a chaotic voyage to France. The tone is lively as it describes the bustling scene at London Bridge, highlighting the mad scramble of families preparing for travel amidst a comical backdrop of numerous packages and children. The author captures the tension and humor in this family move, especially through the maternal figure's frantic efforts — a dynamic that sets up the book's exploration of cultural contrasts, along with Mr. Titmarsh's subsequent experiences in hotels, excursions, and encounters with various characters in the French capital. Through this opening, the reader is drawn into a world rich with observation and societal critiques, delivered with Thackeray's signature humor and style.
The Comic Almanack, Volume 1 An Ephemeris in Jest and Earnest, Containing Merry Tales, Humerous Poetry, Quips, and Oddities
"The Comic Almanack, Volume 1" by Thackeray, À Beckett, Mayhew, Mayhew, and Smith is a collection of humorous writings and illustrations published in the early 19th century. The almanack presents a tapestry of jest and earnestness through merry tales, poetry, quips, and oddities, showcasing the wit of its contributors. Prominent among them are Thackeray's narratives, which likely explore comedic insights into social commentary and human nature. The opening of "The Comic Almanack" reveals a satirical dialogue set in the final moments of the astrologer Francis Moore's life. Surrounded by a grieving nurse and old women, Moore amusingly dismisses their concern, instead engaging in comedic banter with the character Rigdum Funnidos, who solicits the prophetic mantle from Moore. As Moore fluctuates between his dying state and prophetic revelations, humor arises from absurd predictions about the cosmos and daily life, suggesting a playful critique of societal norms and common figures of the time. The blend of poetry, whimsical characters, and bold illustrations invites readers into a quirky narrative filled with sharp wit and whimsical charm.
A History of Pendennis, Volume 1 His fortunes and misfortunes, his friends and his greatest enemy
"A History of Pendennis, Volume 1" by William Makepeace Thackeray is a novel published between 1848-1850. It follows young Arthur Pendennis as he navigates the pitfalls of English society, from a youthful infatuation with an older actress to extravagant university life and London's literary world. Surrounded by memorable characters—including his snobbish uncle Major Pendennis and various romantic interests—Arthur must mature beyond his sheltered upbringing. This bildungsroman offers Thackeray's characteristic satirical examination of ambition, social climbing, and the journey toward adulthood in nineteenth-century England.
Geschiedenis van Arthur Pendennis : $b Zijn voor- en tegenspoed, zijn vrienden en zijn grootsten vijand
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Ballads
"Ballads" by William Makepeace Thackeray is a collection of lyrical poems and ballads written during the mid-19th century. The work showcases a blend of humor, satire, and romantic themes, reflecting on various aspects of life, love, and history through vivid storytelling and characters. The collection offers a tapestry of narratives, from historical accounts to whimsical tales, making it appealing to readers who enjoy poetry with depth and cultural commentary. At the start of this collection, the opening portion introduces "The Chronicle of the Drum," where an old French drummer named Pierre recounts his storied life through the wars he has witnessed and participated in. He shares anecdotes about his ancestors and their military exploits, revealing a nostalgic longing for the glories of the past while navigating themes of loyalty, loss, and the fickleness of fortune in battle. As Pierre reflects on his family's military legacy and the tumultuous events surrounding the French Revolution and Napoleonic wars, he draws listeners into a vivid historical narrative, offering a glimpse of both personal and collective histories entwined with the rhythms of his drum.
Notes on a Journey from Cornhill to Grand Cairo
"Notes on a Journey from Cornhill to Grand Cairo" by William Makepeace Thackeray is a travel narrative written during the mid-19th century. This engaging work chronicles the author's journey through various Mediterranean cities, including Malaga, Athens, and Cairo, exploring both the sights and experiences that accompany his travels. With a humorous and satirical tone, Thackeray provides insights into the cultures and societies he encounters, while also peppering his observations with personal reflections and anecdotes. At the start of the narrative, the writer introduces himself and sets the stage for an unexpected expedition following an invitation to join a Mediterranean cruise. The opening scenes depict lively encounters among fellow passengers aboard the ship "Lady Mary Wood," showcasing a range of colorful characters from a kind-hearted captain to a good-natured lieutenant in charge of the mail. As the author grapples with seasickness and navigates his new surroundings, he shares poetic musings on the beauty of nature and the contrasting mundanity of city life, all while maintaining a witty and observant wit that invites readers along for the ride.
The Second Funeral of Napoleon
"The Second Funeral of Napoleon" by William Makepeace Thackeray is a historical narrative composed during the mid-19th century. This work captures the sentiments and events surrounding the disinterment of Napoleon Bonaparte’s remains from St. Helena and their journey back to France, emphasizing the pomp and pageantry associated with his second funeral. The narrative unfolds with a mix of personal observations, reflections on history, and commentary on the role of individuals in shaping historical events. At the start of this engaging narrative, Thackeray adopts an epistolary style, addressing a character named Amelia while philosophizing about the nature of history and the various interpretations of historical figures. He contrasts the grandiose portrayal of great men in history with the mundane realities of their lives and actions. The opening portion recounts the initial arrangements and decisions surrounding Napoleon’s disinterment at St. Helena, the preparations for transporting his remains back to France, and the significant figures and debates that shaped the ceremony. Through a combination of humor, social critique, and historical detail, Thackeray provides readers with a vivid backdrop to Napoleon's legacy and the reverence with which the French nation regarded him, all while maintaining a candid and often irreverent tone.
The Fatal Boots
"The Fatal Boots" by William Makepeace Thackeray is a satirical novel written during the early 19th century. The story revolves around the misadventures of its main character, Bob Stubbs, who faces a series of unfortunate events largely attributed to his unfortunate obsession with obtaining a pair of fashionable boots. As Stubbs navigates through his trials, his experiences reflect themes of social class, ambition, and the often absurd nature of societal expectations. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Bob Stubbs, whose life is marked by persistent misfortune, beginning with the circumstances of his birth. He recounts his early years, detailing his childhood experiences including his attempts to navigate school and his peculiar financial dealings with classmates. This opening portion humorously sets the stage for Bob’s character—a somewhat unscrupulous yet endearing young man who aspires to be a gentleman despite his lack of wealth and standing. The narrative plays with the irony of his aspirations against the backdrop of his comically exaggerated misadventures, highlighting the folly and struggles of pursuing one's desires in a rigidly stratified society.
The Christmas Books of Mr. M.A. Titmarsh
"The Christmas Books of Mr. M.A. Titmarsh" by William Makepeace Thackeray is a collection of stories written in the mid-19th century. The book features a humorous and satirical narrative style, centered around the character of Mr. M.A. Titmarsh, who appears to be a representative of the author's alter ego and serves as a storyteller for a whimsical exploration of English society, particularly during the festive season. The stories within this collection examine various aspects of life, social norms, and the quirks of contemporary characters, offering readers a vivid and entertaining portrayal of the times. The opening of the book introduces us to the character of Mr. M.A. Titmarsh, as he recounts the amusing social dynamics surrounding Mrs. Perkins's ball. Through his observations, we meet a colorful cast of characters, including the eccentric Mulligan, whose grandiose claims about his heritage and boisterous demeanor contrast humorously with the genteel surroundings of the ball. Titmarsh’s interactions with Mulligan and his reflections on the ball itself set the tone for the ensuing chaos, as he navigates the challenges of social expectations and personal eccentricities. The vivid descriptions of the ball and the guests, along with Titmarsh's wit, draw readers into a lively world that blends comedy with astute social commentary, hinting at the delightful narratives to come.
Catherine: A Story
"Catherine: A Story" by William Makepeace Thackeray is a novel serialized between 1839 and 1840. Written as a deliberate critique of popular crime fiction that romanticized criminals, Thackeray based his story on Catherine Hayes, a real eighteenth-century woman executed for murdering her husband. His goal was to portray criminals as utterly vile and unredeemable. Yet despite his intentions, Thackeray developed an unexpected sympathy for his heroine, and the novel's rogues emerged as oddly appealing—a result the author considered a failure.