Anthony Trollope, one of the greatest English novelists of the Victorian era, left an indelible mark on the literary world with his insightful and captivating works. Born on April 24, 1815, in London, Trollope’s early life was marked by financial struggles and personal setbacks. However, his determination and love for writing propelled him to become a prolific author, penning over 47 novels, numerous short stories, and non-fiction works. Today, his literary legacy continues to inspire readers and writers alike.
Anthony Trollope’s Biography
Anthony Trollope’s life journey was filled with both triumphs and challenges. Despite experiencing financial difficulties early on, he managed to secure a position at the General Post Office, where he worked for over three decades. Balancing his demanding job with his passion for writing, Trollope developed a disciplined routine, waking up early in the morning to write before heading to work. This dedication allowed him to create a vast and diverse literary repertoire.
Trollope’s writing career began with his debut novel, “The Macdermots of Ballycloran,” published in 1847. Although not an immediate success, this novel laid the foundation for his future literary accomplishments. Over the years, Trollope’s popularity grew, and he became a celebrated author, known for his realistic portrayal of characters and his ability to capture the essence of Victorian society.
The Legacy of Anthony Trollope
Anthony Trollope’s impact on the literary world cannot be overstated. His works continue to resonate with readers today, exploring themes of love, family, politics, and social class. Trollope’s keen observations of human nature and his nuanced character development set him apart as a master storyteller.
Furthermore, Trollope’s innovative writing style, characterized by his use of multiple plotlines and richly drawn characters, influenced future generations of writers. His techniques, such as the use of a series of novels centered around a specific setting or group of characters, laid the groundwork for the modern serialized television dramas we enjoy today.
Anthony Trollope’s Books: A Brief Overview
With a vast collection of novels to his name, Anthony Trollope’s literary contributions are diverse and captivating. His novels span various genres, including social comedies, political dramas, and historical fiction. Trollope’s works often delve into the intricate workings of society, exploring the dynamics of relationships, the struggles of the working class, and the complexities of power and wealth.
Some of Trollope’s most notable works include “The Barchester Chronicles,” a series of six novels set in the fictional county of Barsetshire. This series, which includes “The Warden” and “Barchester Towers,” offers a detailed portrayal of the Church of England and its clergy. Another renowned work is “The Palliser Novels,” a series of six political novels that delve into the world of British politics during the Victorian era.
Five Best Books by Anthony Trollope
Anthony Trollope’s extensive literary career leaves readers spoiled for choice. However, several novels stand out as shining examples of his exceptional storytelling. Here are five of Trollope’s best works:
- “The Way We Live Now” – This satirical novel explores themes of greed, corruption, and social decay in Victorian society. Trollope’s keen observations and biting wit make this a must-read for fans of his works.
- “Can You Forgive Her?” – The first novel in the Palliser series, this book introduces readers to the complex world of politics and love. Trollope’s insightful portrayal of female characters and their agency is particularly notable.
- “Doctor Thorne” – Set in the fictional county of Barsetshire, this novel delves into the lives of the Gresham family and their struggles with love, money, and social expectations. Trollope’s vivid descriptions and realistic characters make this a compelling read.
- “The Eustace Diamonds” – Part of the Palliser series, this novel follows the story of a young widow and the controversy surrounding a valuable diamond necklace. Trollope’s exploration of greed and morality is captivating.
- “Phineas Finn” – The second novel in the Palliser series, this book delves into the world of British politics through the eyes of the charming and ambitious Phineas Finn. Trollope’s political insights and engaging storytelling make this a standout novel.
Notable Quotes from Anthony Trollope’s Works
Anthony Trollope’s novels are filled with memorable quotes that encapsulate the essence of his characters and themes. Here are a few notable quotes from his works:
- “There is no road to wealth so easy and respectable as that of matrimony.” – from “Can You Forgive Her?”
- “One cannot always be a hero, but one can always be a man.” – from “The Last Chronicle of Barset”
- “It is a comfortable feeling to know that you stand on your own ground. Land is about the only thing that can’t fly away.” – from “The Way We Live Now”
- “There is nothing perhaps so generally consoling to a man as a well-established grievance.” – from “Phineas Finn”
- “The habit of reading is the only enjoyment in which there is no alloy; it lasts when all other pleasures fade.” – from “Framley Parsonage”
The Settings of Anthony Trollope’s Books
Anthony Trollope’s novels are often intricately tied to their settings. The vivid descriptions of these locations transport readers to different eras and provide a deeper understanding of the characters’ lives and experiences. Here are some of the main places where Trollope’s books are set:
- Barsetshire – This fictional county serves as the backdrop for the Barchester Chronicles, a series of novels that explore the lives of the clergy and the local community.
- London – Trollope’s novels often feature the bustling capital city, showcasing its social, political, and cultural dynamics.
- Ireland – Trollope’s Irish heritage is evident in several of his works, with Ireland serving as a setting that highlights themes of nationalism, identity, and societal divisions.
- Parliamentary Chambers – Many of Trollope’s novels, particularly those in the Palliser series, delve into the world of British politics, taking readers inside the halls of power and decision-making.
- Rural England – Trollope’s novels often depict the idyllic countryside, providing a contrast to the urban settings and exploring the lives of the rural population.
The First Book by Anthony Trollope
“The Macdermots of Ballycloran” marked Anthony Trollope’s debut as a novelist. Published in 1847, this novel tells the story of a struggling Irish family and their fight for survival. Set in County Leitrim, Ireland, the book explores themes of poverty, love, and societal expectations.
While “The Macdermots of Ballycloran” did not achieve immediate success, it laid the foundation for Trollope’s future works. The novel showcases Trollope’s early writing style, with its realistic characters and vivid descriptions of the Irish landscape. Although lesser-known compared to his later works, this debut novel is an important piece in the puzzle of understanding Trollope’s literary journey.
The Last Book by Anthony Trollope
“The Landleaguers,” published posthumously in 1883, marked the end of Anthony Trollope’s literary career. This unfinished novel, completed by Trollope’s son Henry, explores the political and social issues surrounding landownership in Ireland. While the novel remains incomplete, it provides valuable insights into Trollope’s evolving thoughts on Irish politics and society.
“The Landleaguers” showcases Trollope’s continued commitment to capturing the complexities of Irish life. Through its characters and plotlines, the novel delves into the struggles faced by the Irish peasantry and the tensions between different factions within society. Although Trollope was unable to finish this work himself, it serves as a testament to his enduring legacy as a writer.
The Chronological Order of Anthony Trollope’s Books
For readers interested in exploring Anthony Trollope’s works in chronological order, here is a list of his novels and their publication dates:
- “The Macdermots of Ballycloran” (1847)
- “The Kellys and the O’Kellys” (1848)
- “La Vendée” (1850)
- “The Warden” (1855)
- “Barchester Towers” (1857)
- “Doctor Thorne” (1858)
- “Framley Parsonage” (1861)
- “Orley Farm” (1862)
- “The Small House at Allington” (1864)
- “Can You Forgive Her?” (1864)
- “The Last Chronicle of Barset” (1867)
- “Phineas Finn” (1869)
- “He Knew He Was Right” (1869)
- “The Eustace Diamonds” (1873)
- “Phineas Redux” (1874)
- “The Prime Minister” (1876)
- “The Duke’s Children” (1880)
- “The Landleaguers” (1883, completed by Henry Trollope)
The Screen Adaptation of “The Way We Live Now”
One of Anthony Trollope’s most famous novels, “The Way We Live Now,” received a screen adaptation in 2001. This four-part television miniseries brought Trollope’s scathing social commentary to life, captivating audiences with its compelling storyline and brilliant performances.
The adaptation, written by Andrew Davies and directed by David Yates, remains faithful to Trollope’s original work while adding a contemporary touch. The series explores themes of greed, corruption, and the influence of money and power in society. With a stellar cast that includes David Suchet, Matthew Macfadyen, and Shirley Henderson, “The Way We Live Now” is a must-watch for fans of Trollope’s works.
Artists Who Inspired Anthony Trollope
Anthony Trollope drew inspiration from various artists and writers throughout his career. Their works influenced his writing style and themes, shaping the literary landscape he created. Here are a few artists who inspired Trollope:
- William Shakespeare – Trollope greatly admired Shakespeare’s ability to capture the complexities of human nature, and he drew inspiration from the Bard’s works in his own character development.
- Jane Austen – Trollope admired Austen’s keen observations of society, particularly in relation to marriage and relationships. Her wit and social commentary influenced his writing style.
- Honoré de Balzac – Trollope was inspired by Balzac’s attention to detail and his ability to create multi-dimensional characters. Balzac’s works, such as “Comédie Humaine,” served as a model for Trollope’s own series of novels.
- Charles Dickens – Trollope admired Dickens’ ability to depict the struggles of the working class and the social issues of his time. Dickens’ vivid descriptions and memorable characters influenced Trollope’s writing.
- Thomas Hardy – Trollope drew inspiration from Hardy’s realistic portrayal of rural life and his exploration of societal constraints. Hardy’s works, such as “Tess of the d’Urbervilles,” resonated with Trollope’s own themes of love and social class.
Other Writers and Books If You Liked Anthony Trollope
If you enjoyed Anthony Trollope’s works, there are many other writers and books that you may find equally captivating. Here is a list of ten authors and their notable works that share similarities with Trollope’s writing:
- George Eliot – “Middlemarch”
- Thomas Hardy – “Far from the Madding Crowd”
- Elizabeth Gaskell – “North and South”
- Edith Wharton – “The Age of Innocence”
- Henry James – “The Portrait of a Lady”
- Jane Austen – “Pride and Prejudice”
- Charles Dickens – “Great Expectations”
- William Makepeace Thackeray – “Vanity Fair”
- Leo Tolstoy – “Anna Karenina”
- Fyodor Dostoevsky – “Crime and Punishment”
These authors, like Trollope, delve into the complexities of human relationships, societal norms, and the struggles of the working class. Their works offer rich storytelling and thought-provoking insights into the human condition.
Buying Guide and Gift Ideas for Anthony Trollope Fans
If you are a fan of Anthony Trollope or know someone who is, here is a detailed buying guide and some gift ideas to enhance your Trollope experience:
- Complete Works Collection – Consider purchasing a complete set of Trollope’s novels, allowing you to delve into his entire repertoire at your own pace.
- Biographies – Explore the life and times of Anthony Trollope through biographies written by renowned scholars. These books provide valuable insights into the author’s life and his literary journey.
- Illustrated Editions – Enhance your reading experience with beautifully illustrated editions of Trollope’s novels. These editions bring the characters and settings to life, adding an extra layer of visual delight.
- Trollope-themed Merchandise – Show your love for Trollope with merchandise such as t-shirts, mugs, and tote bags featuring quotes or images from his novels. These items make great gifts for fellow Trollope enthusiasts.
- Book Club Membership – Join a Trollope-themed book club or gift a membership to a friend. Engage in lively discussions about Trollope’s works with fellow fans and gain deeper insights into his novels.
