Subject
Great Britain -- History -- Anne, 1702-1714 -- Fiction Books
Best books
Victor Hugo
The Man Who Laughs: A Romance of English History
"The Man Who Laughs: A Romance of English History" by Victor Hugo is a Gothic novel published in 1869. Set in late 17th-century England, it follows Gwynplaine, a young nobleman disfigured as a child by royal command, his face carved into a permanent grin. Traveling with a philosopher and a blind girl he rescued, Gwynplaine becomes a carnival performer whose grotesque smile provokes laughter and desire. When his true identity surfaces, he's thrust into a cruel aristocratic world that destroyed him, forcing a confrontation between his past and present.
William Makepeace Thackeray
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.
Victor Hugo
L'homme Qui Rit
"L'homme Qui Rit" by Victor Hugo is a philosophical and dramatic novel published in April 1869. Set in late 17th and early 18th century England, it follows the fate of Gwynplaine, a young boy abandoned by comprachicos—child traders who mutilate children for profit. Left with a face carved into a permanent smile, Gwynplaine's path crosses with Ursus, a wandering philosopher, and his wolf companion. Hugo weaves together themes of aristocracy, human cruelty, and social injustice in this sweeping tale.
William Makepeace Thackeray
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.
Edward Bulwer Lytton Lytton
Devereux — Complete
"Devereux — Complete" by Edward Bulwer Lytton is a semi-autobiographical novel written in the early 19th century. The narrative follows the life of Morton Devereux, who reflects upon his upbringing, family dynamics, and the formation of his character amidst the societal expectations of a bygone era. The book delves into deep philosophical themes, particularly concerning the tensions between human emotions and their external expressions, framed within a historical context. The opening portion reveals the backstory of Morton Devereux, introducing his family lineage, particularly the contrasting lives of his uncle Sir William and his father. The narrative begins with Morton's childhood, highlighting the complexities of sibling relationships and the unique bond he shares with his uncle, who nurtures his wit and talent. Key figures, including the reverent yet enigmatic Abbe Montreuil, set the stage for the protagonist's intellectual and moral development. Throughout this introduction, we see Morton's struggles with identity, familial expectations, and the quest for personal meaning, laying a foundation for the conflicts that will shape his adventures and self-discovery throughout the tale.
Edward Bulwer Lytton Lytton
Devereux — Volume 06
"Devereux — Volume 06" by Baron Edward Bulwer Lytton is a historical novel written during the mid-19th century. The narrative follows the character Morton Devereux as he navigates complex emotional terrain, relationships, and societal challenges in a richly painted historical backdrop, particularly focusing on his return to Europe and subsequent introspections after his time in Russia. The opening of the work presents Devereux's return to St. Petersburg and his reflections on life, loss, and his desire for solitude amidst a tumultuous political landscape following the death of the Czar. He reveals a longing for the warmth of Italy, both as an antidote to his chilly past in Russia and as a sanctuary for contemplation and philosophical inquiry. Devereux’s retreat takes him to a secluded cottage in a picturesque Italian vale, where the natural beauty of the environment prompts profound contemplations on life, love, and the intermingling of pleasure and pain. Throughout this period, he encounters a hermit whose tortured existence suggests a dark connection to Devereux's own history, setting the stage for the intertwined fates of the characters and the impending revelations that will unfold.
Edward Bulwer Lytton Lytton
Devereux — Volume 01
"Devereux — Volume 01" by Edward Bulwer Lytton is a semi-autobiographical novel written during the early 19th century. The narrative introduces us to Morton Devereux, a character deeply reflective of the struggles between societal expectations and personal aspirations, illustrating a journey through youth marked by ambition, rivalry, and the search for identity. The story unfolds against a backdrop of historical events and characters, mirroring the philosophical inquiries and personal dilemmas that Dominate Morton's life. The opening of the novel sets the stage for Morton Devereux's life story, beginning with a recounting of his family history. Celebrated as a product of noble lineage, the narrative weaves through the tales of his uncle, Sir William Devereux, and the contrasting paths of Morton and his brothers, highlighting themes of fraternity, rivalry, and paternal affection. The protagonist's early interactions reveal his complex relationships with family members, especially with his brothers, underscoring a volatility of emotions that shape his formative years. Notably, Morton's bond with his Uncle William emerges as a cornerstone of his development, showcasing the deeper struggles of understanding one's place in a world defined by expectations and personal conflict. As the tale pushes forward, it hints at the emerging dynamics of friendship and ambition, setting the tone for the trials and tribulations to come.
Edward Bulwer Lytton Lytton
Devereux — Volume 03
"Devereux — Volume 03" by Baron Edward Bulwer Lytton Lytton is a novel written during the mid-19th century. The narrative centers on the character Morton Devereux, who finds himself navigating the complexities of love, honor, and family dynamics amidst societal expectations and personal ambitions. In this volume, Morton is faced with a secret marriage to Isora and a newly inherited family conflict over his uncle's will, which unexpectedly favors his brother Gerald. The opening portion of the book sets the stage for Morton's emotional and moral dilemmas. It begins with a philosophical reflection on fate and necessity, illustrated through an analogy involving flies caught in a spider's web. Morton has recently recuperated from an injury and married Isora in private to protect her honor, but is now faced with the challenge of revealing this union to his family, particularly to his uncle, who is unaware of their marriage. The text then shifts focus to the implications of his uncle’s death and the questionable will that leaves the family estate to Gerald, suggesting a potential deception that Morton feels compelled to investigate. Thus, the initial chapters establish high stakes for Morton, blending romantic aspiration with impending familial conflict that promises to further complicate his life.
Edward Bulwer Lytton Lytton
Devereux — Volume 04
"Devereux — Volume 04" by Baron Edward Bulwer Lytton is a novel written in the early 19th century. Set against a backdrop of intrigue, betrayal, and personal vendetta, the story revolves around the main character grappling with the aftermath of violence and loss. As he seeks to reclaim his dignity and uncover the truth behind a murder, themes of justice, revenge, and moral complexity are explored, particularly as they relate to his rival, Gerald, and his love interest, Isora. The opening of the novel describes a traumatized protagonist emerging from a long period of affliction and madness, haunted by the brutal murder of Isora and the loss of a crucial packet of documents. As he struggles to understand the circumstances surrounding the events, suspicion falls on Gerald, who seems to gain from the chaos. Meanwhile, the protagonist's investigation leads him to question various characters, including Desmarais, while external perceptions sway toward viewing him as the potential villain. This initial chapter effectively sets the stage for a narrative steeped in psychological tension and moral ambiguity, hinting at a complex interplay of personal and political motives that will unfold throughout the story.
G. P. R. (George Payne Rainsford) James
The Man in Black: An Historical Novel of the Days of Queen Anne
"The Man in Black: An Historical Novel of the Days of Queen Anne" by G. P. R. James is a historical novel written in the mid-19th century. The story is set during the reign of Queen Anne and centers on the character Philip Hastings, a boy whose life is forever altered by the tragic drowning of his brother and the subsequent events that unfold within his family and social circle. The opening of the novel paints a vivid picture of an old, somber country house, introducing the reader to a teenage Philip Hastings engrossed in his Latin studies. His pensive demeanor reflects the weight of his existence, heightened by his relationship with a stern old clergyman, Dr. Paulding, who serves as both guardian and educator. The narrative quickly shifts to the heartbreaking news of his brother Arthur's death, delivered by Dr. Paulding in a moment of grave concern. As Philip grapples with the shock and grief of losing his brother, the opening captures the themes of familial duty, the weight of expectations, and the unfolding of fate that will shape his future.
Edward Bulwer Lytton Lytton
Devereux — Volume 02
"Devereux — Volume 02" by Baron Edward Bulwer Lytton is a novel written in the early 19th century. The narrative follows the main character, Morton Devereux, a young man navigating the complex social landscape of London, defined by wealth, pleasure, and the superficiality of aristocratic life. Through Devereux and his interactions, the story delves into themes of romance, societal expectations, and personal identity amidst the hedonism of the time. The opening of "Devereux" introduces us to the lavish lifestyle of the protagonist as he is immersed in the social whirl of London, surrounded by a colorful cast of characters including his flamboyant friend Tarleton and a variety of societal figures, both high and low. Morton Devereux is depicted in a moment of leisure, reflecting on the frivolities of his existence while engaging in witty banter with friends about debauchery and the nature of pleasure. Through their discussions and actions, the reader sees not only an exploration of contemporary society but also hints of deeper philosophical insights into love and personal fulfillment, setting the tone for the intriguing dynamics that unfold throughout the novel.
Edward Bulwer Lytton Lytton
Devereux — Volume 05
"Devereux — Volume 05" by Baron Edward Bulwer Lytton is a historical novel written during the mid-19th century. The narrative follows the journey of the protagonist, Mortimer Devereux, who navigates through themes of travel, existential reflection, and the influence of historical figures, particularly in his interactions with Peter the Great of Russia. The opening portion of the novel introduces Devereux's reflections on the nature of travel, suggesting that it stirs a profound emotional and philosophical response within him. As he traverses France, he muses over the disparity between the country's outward beauty and its underlying social issues. His encounter with a melancholy village priest invites deeper contemplation on happiness and societal constraints. This thoughtful introduction sets the stage for Devereux's travels into Russia, where he is drawn into the complexities of court life and political intrigue, highlighting his evolving perceptions of freedom, power, and the human condition. As the narrative progresses, we see him grappling with profound questions about life, death, and the essence of existence itself.
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