The Cockaynes in Paris; Or, 'Gone abroad'

by Blanchard Jerrold

"The Cockaynes in Paris; Or, 'Gone abroad'" by Blanchard Jerrold is a comedic novel written in the late 19th century. The book centers around the Cockayne family, who embark on a journey to Paris during a time when the city is at its vibrant peak, exploring the cultural differences and humorous misunderstandings between the British and the French. Through the eyes of the Cockaynes, particularly the father, Mr. Cockayne, readers can anticipate a satirical look at English tourists abroad and their often ill-suited attempts to navigate foreign customs. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to the boarding house run by Mrs. Rowe in Paris, where the story unfolds with a rich commentary on class, culture, and the quirks of English visitors. The tone is set through the author's reflections on the changing relationship between Englishmen and the French, as well as the social dynamics within the boarding house. The character of Mrs. Rowe emerges as both a formidable landlady and a woman burdened by her own history, while we catch a glimpse of the Cockayne family preparing for their Parisian adventure, filled with anticipation and naivety. The opening thus establishes a backdrop of both nostalgia and critique, setting the stage for the humorous escapades that await the Cockaynes in the French capital.