Pelham — Volume 01

"Pelham — Volume 01" by Edward Bulwer Lytton is a novel written during the early 19th century. This work introduces us to Henry Pelham, the only child of an aristocratic family, exploring themes of social standing, family dynamics, and personal ambition within the context of early Victorian society. The narrative unfolds as we learn about Henry's upbringing among the expectations and extravagances of his parents, particularly through various humorous and dramatic events that set the tone for his adventures. The beginning of the novel introduces us to Henry Pelham’s family background, detailing the contrasts between his father's aspirations and his mother's superficial values. It humorously depicts a scandal involving his mother, Lady Frances, and her lover, which reveals the conflicts between appearance and reality that pervade their lives. As Henry grows up, he experiences the isolation of being an only child and navigates the complexities of friendship, particularly with a boy named Reginald Glanville, who is characterized by his melancholy and noble spirit. The opening chapters set the stage for an exploration of social manners, personal ambitions, and the often absurd nature of high society as Henry ventures into new environments, such as Eton and Cambridge, where he continues to develop his identity amidst the contrasting values of education and society. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Edward George Earle Lytton Bulwer-Lytton, 1st Baron Lytton,, was an English writer and politician. He served as a Whig member of Parliament from 1831 to 1841 and a Conservative from 1851 to 1866. He was Secretary of State for the Colonies from June 1858 to June 1859, choosing Richard Clement Moody as founder of British Columbia. He was created Baron Lytton of Knebworth in 1866.