William Makepeace Thackeray Livres

Mémoires de Barry Lyndon (originellement The Luck of Barry Lyndon) est à la fois une autobiographie fictive et un roman picaresque, historique, satirique et d'aventures de l'écrivain britannique William Makepeace Thackeray (1811-1863). Cette œuvre s'inspire en grande partie de la vie d'un personnage réel, l'aventurier irlandais Andrew Robinson Stoney. L'histoire couvre la période allant de 1745 environ jusqu'à 1814, année de la mort du héros. Bien que la vie de Barry s'étale sur l'ensemble de la seconde moitié du siècle et même au-delà, le récit se concentre sur les vingt-cinq années allant du départ de Barry de son Irlande natale (1759-1760) à sa chute ignominieuse deux ans après la mort de son fils (1785-1786). Le livre raconte l'histoire d'un « rogue », c'est-à-dire d'une canaille, imbu de lui-même jusqu'à la naïveté, dénué de scrupules, vaniteux et vantard, prêt à tout, jusqu'à la pire brutalité, pour parvenir à ses fins. C'est à lui, convaincu d'être le meilleur et le plus grand des hommes, que l'auteur a confié les clefs de la narration, point de vue, œil, oreille, voix, lui et les événements qu'il vit se donnant à voir et entendre tels qu'il les considère. Thackeray, cependant, a l'art de ridiculiser la société par son intermédiaire et, dans le même temps, de dessiner une critique en creux du personnage ; aussi Barry apparaît-il à la fois comme l'objet et l'agent de sa satire.

The book presents a collection of biographies focused on key figures of 18th-century English literature and humor. It includes notable personalities such as Jonathan Swift, Congreve, Addison, and Richard Steele, among others. Thackeray's work reflects his deep engagement with English humor and literature, stemming from his experiences as a journalist and lecturer. This compilation not only highlights the contributions of these writers and artists but also offers insights into the cultural context of their time, showcasing the evolution of English humor.

Set in 1850, this historical fiction follows a young man navigating the complexities of wealth, happiness, and social distractions during his university years. With a keen eye for period manners and customs, the author portrays the protagonist's struggles as he becomes sidetracked by women and revelry instead of focusing on his studies. Illustrated by the author, the narrative reflects a blend of humor and insight into human behavior, showcasing a dispassionate sympathy for the character's choices.

The book is a facsimile reprint of an original antiquarian work, preserving its historical significance despite potential imperfections such as marks and flawed pages. It aims to protect and promote cultural literature by providing an affordable, high-quality edition that remains true to the original text.

The collection features a selection of Thackeray's Christmas-themed stories, including "Mrs. Perkins's Ball," "Our Street," and "Dr. Birch and his Young Friends." Renowned for his satirical writing, Thackeray's works reflect the social dynamics of the 19th century. This edition not only preserves these classic tales but also includes a new biography, making it a valuable resource for fans and collectors. Its modern reprint ensures accessibility to Thackeray's timeless narratives, which have become increasingly rare and sought after.

A collection of influential essays and writings by notable figures, this book explores diverse themes such as art, society, nature, and politics. It features contributions from renowned authors like Matthew Arnold and Edgar Allan Poe, each offering unique perspectives on the human experience. The work delves into the intellectual currents of its time, reflecting on moral and philosophical dilemmas while showcasing the literary prowess of its contributors. Together, these pieces provide a rich tapestry of 19th-century thought and culture.

This edition is a reprint of the original 1916 publication, offering readers a chance to explore the historical context and themes presented in the text. The reissue preserves the authenticity of the earlier work, making it a valuable addition for those interested in the literature of that era.

The book is a facsimile reprint of an original work, preserving its historical significance despite potential imperfections like marks and notations. It aims to protect and promote cultural literature, offering an affordable, high-quality edition that remains true to the original text.

The book is a facsimile reprint of an original antiquarian work, preserving its historical significance despite potential imperfections like marks and flawed pages. It emphasizes the importance of protecting and promoting literature by providing high-quality, affordable editions that remain true to the original text.

Set in mid-nineteenth century Ireland, this travel book offers a captivating exploration of the country through Thackeray's keen observations. It features a variety of sketches, including a summer day in Dublin and journeys from Carlow to Cork, showcasing both urban and rural life. As an esteemed novelist known for his satire, Thackeray's insights provide a rich context for understanding Ireland during this period. The modern edition includes a new biography, making it a valuable addition for fans and collectors of his work.