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Thackeray, William Makepeace, 1811-1863 Books
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James Thomas Fields
Yesterdays with Authors
"Yesterdays with Authors" by James Thomas Fields is a collection of personal anecdotes and reflections written during the late 19th century. In this engaging memoir, Fields provides insights into his experiences as a prominent publisher and bookseller, who held close relationships with some of the most significant literary figures of his time, including Nathaniel Hawthorne, Charles Dickens, and William Makepeace Thackeray. The book offers a window into the lives and creative processes of these authors, blending biographical narrative with a vivid portrayal of the literary world of the era. At the start of "Yesterdays with Authors," Fields sets the tone by reminiscing about his friendships with various literary figures, sharing the joy and privilege he feels in observing their lives and works. He discusses the portraits hanging in his space—silent companions that spark conversations about their personalities and significant contributions to literature. The opening portion includes specific references to his interactions with Alexander Pope, weaving in rich historical context while highlighting the profound impact these authors had on him. Fields' warm, conversational style invites readers into a realm where literary history and personal relationships intertwine, laying the groundwork for a detailed exploration of authors whose legacies shaped the literary canon.
Arthur Quiller-Couch
Charles Dickens and other Victorians
"Charles Dickens and Other Victorians" by Sir Arthur Quiller-Couch is a collection of literary analyses and lectures written in the early 20th century. The book focuses on the works and influence of key Victorian authors, with a primary emphasis on Charles Dickens, while also exploring other notable writers from that era. Through a series of lectures, Quiller-Couch aims to evaluate the significance of these authors in the context of their time, unraveling their thematic concerns and literary achievements. At the start of the work, the author sets the stage by reflecting on Westminster Hall, a place marked by significant historical events, paralleling it with the literary legacy left by Charles Dickens. He presents a vivid portrait of Dickens as a youthful writer on the brink of success—filled with joy and pride at his publication. Quiller-Couch enhances the understanding of Dickens’ character and significance through anecdotes and discussions about his contemporaries, commenters on his work such as Tennyson and Carlyle, and highlights the emotional resonance Dickens had with his audience. He emphasizes the universal appeal of Dickens’ characters, his narrative style, and the cultural backdrop of the Victorian era, establishing the foundation for a deeper examination of his contributions to literature.
Unknown
Thackerayana: Notes and Anecdotes
"Thackerayana: Notes and Anecdotes" by William Makepeace Thackeray is a collection of sketches and humorous reminiscences presumably written in the mid-19th century. The work offers a glimpse into Thackeray's early life, education at the Charterhouse School, and his fondness for literature and art, illustrated through sketches and anecdotes. It is an affectionate exploration of his formative years and the influences that shaped his writing. The opening of "Thackerayana" sets the stage by recounting Thackeray's school experiences, highlighting his creativity and wit from a young age. It details his time at the Charterhouse School, where he delighted in drawing caricatures of teachers and illustrating stories from his favorite childhood books. Anecdotes about his early interactions with literature, such as sketching in the margins of texts and crafting humorous poetry, reveal the budding talent that would later flourish into his acclaimed literary career. The introduction hints at the blend of nostalgia and sharp humor that permeates the entire collection, inviting readers to appreciate the masterful way Thackeray intertwines personal narratives with broader reflections on literature and society.
Anthony Trollope
Thackeray
"Thackeray" by Anthony Trollope is a biographical piece written in the late 19th century. This work is part of the "English Men of Letters" series, aimed at exploring the lives and achievements of notable writers. Trollope delves into the life of William Makepeace Thackeray, focusing on his journey as an author and the challenges he faced throughout his career, offering insights into both his personal and professional life. The opening of this biography introduces readers to the notion that there has been no comprehensive memoir written about Thackeray despite his prominence in literature. Trollope discusses Thackeray's reluctance towards personal flattery in biographical accounts, thus explaining why his daughters maintained an air of privacy surrounding their father's life. It outlines Thackeray's early years, including anecdotes from his childhood, education, and initial struggles in establishing himself as an author amid the literary competition of his time. The chapter sets the tone for a deeper exploration of Thackeray's works and character, examining the intertwining of his life experiences with his literary endeavors, foreshadowing further exploration of his notable contributions to literature.
G. K. (Gilbert Keith) Chesterton
Thackeray
"Thackeray" by G. K. Chesterton and Lewis Melville is a biography written in the early 20th century that examines the life and works of the celebrated English novelist William Makepeace Thackeray. The book provides an insightful exploration of Thackeray's literary contributions, his unique perspective on society, and his characterizations of the diverse world he observed. It delves into the themes and philosophies that underpinned his writings while placing them in the context of the Victorian literary milieu. The biography discusses Thackeray's upbringing, artistic endeavors, and significant works such as "Vanity Fair," "Pendennis," and "The History of Henry Esmond." It highlights his ability to portray the complexities of human nature, including the folly and knavery inherent in society. The authors emphasize Thackeray's belief in kindness and idealism amidst a cynical world, portraying him as both a satirist and an advocate for the human spirit. With numerous illustrations and a detailed examination of his characters, the book serves not only as a tribute to Thackeray's genius but also as an exploration of the moral and social values he championed through his poignant, often melancholic storytelling.
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