The History of Pendennis

"The History of Pendennis" by William Makepeace Thackeray is a novel written during the mid-19th century (Victorian era). The story centers around Major Arthur Pendennis, a young man navigating the complexities of life, love, and societal expectations in England. The narrative explores his relationships with family, friends, and acquaintances, particularly focusing on his dramatic decision to pursue an actress, which creates tension and conflict. The opening of the novel introduces Major Pendennis as he enjoys his breakfast at a club in Pall Mall, showcasing his social status and charm. While he is resplendent in his attire and seems to command respect, he receives distressing news from his sister concerning his nephew, Arthur Pendennis Jr., who is infatuated with an actress and wishes to marry her against family expectations. This news triggers a sense of alarm for the Major, who is concerned about the impact of such a romantic entanglement on the family’s reputation. As he reads the passionate letters from both his sister and nephew, the dynamics of their relationships unfold, setting the stage for the ensuing drama and comedy in the life of Arthur Pendennis, the protagonist in this tale of love and societal scrutiny. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

William Makepeace Thackeray was an English novelist and illustrator. He is known for his satirical works, particularly his 1847–1848 novel Vanity Fair, a panoramic portrait of British society, and the 1844 novel The Luck of Barry Lyndon, which was adapted for a 1975 film by Stanley Kubrick.