William Makepeace Thackeray's Vanity Fair is lauded for its satirical critique of 19th-century British society, vivid characterizations, and complex plot. Critics appreciate its wit and incisive examination of social ambition. However, some find its length daunting and its moral ambiguity unsettling. Overall, it remains a cornerstone of classic English literature.

A reader who enjoys Vanity Fair by William Makepeace Thackeray relishes 19th-century classics with incisive social commentary, complex characters, and satirical undertones. They likely appreciate works like Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen and Middlemarch by George Eliot for their rich exploration of human nature and societal norms.

Vanity Fair by William Makepeace Thackeray follows Becky Sharp, a clever and manipulative woman of humble origins, and her friend Amelia Sedley, a naive and wealthy girl, as they navigate societal ambitions and personal relationships in 19th-century England. Themes of social climbing, betrayal, and love intersect against the backdrop of historical events, illustrating the morally ambiguous nature of their world. The book features discussions of physical abuse, racism, and suicidal ideation.

Bittersweet / Contemplative / Gritty / Humorous

- Vanity Fair originally appeared as a 19-part serial from 1847 to 1848, with each installment priced at a shilling, before being published as a complete novel.
- William Makepeace Thackeray's illustration talents contributed to the charm of Vanity Fair, as he provided the drawings and cover for the original editions.
- Thackeray considered naming the novel Pen and Pencil Sketches of English Society but ultimately chose Vanity Fair, referencing John Bunyan's The Pilgrim's Progress.

William Makepeace Thackeray

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore Vanity Fair and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Vanity Fair Summary

Background

Vanity Fair Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Prologue-Chapter 9

Vanity Fair Prologue-Chapter 9 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 10-19

Vanity Fair Chapters 10-19 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 20-29

Vanity Fair Chapters 20-29 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 30-39

Vanity Fair Chapters 30-39 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 40-49

Vanity Fair Chapters 40-49 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 50-59

Vanity Fair Chapters 50-59 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 60-67

Vanity Fair Chapters 60-67 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Vanity Fair Character Analysis

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Themes

Vanity Fair Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Vanity Fair Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Vanity Fair Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Vanity Fair Essay Topics

Vanity Fair: A Novel Without a Hero

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Vanity Fair?

Reading Age

Book Details