The Disowned — Volume 04

"The Disowned — Volume 04" by Baron Edward Bulwer Lytton is a novel written during the mid-19th century. The narrative follows the struggles of Clarence, a young man grappling with the complexities of identity, familial rejection, and societal expectations. As he navigates through a world of high society, love interests, and personal conflicts, the story explores themes of honor, ambition, and the pursuit of one's true self against the backdrop of social intrigue. At the start of the novel, Clarence is in a state of emotional turmoil after being rejected by his father and relating to his benefactor, Talbot, who encourages him to embrace his true identity. Yet, Clarence's sense of worth is challenged as he confronts the elitist snobbery of figures like Lord Borodaile, who looks down upon him. The opening chapters introduce key characters such as Talbot, who provides emotional support, and La Meronville, whose romantic entanglements further complicate Clarence's social standing. As tensions rise, especially following a confrontation between Clarence and Borodaile that leads to a duel over honor, readers are drawn into a web of interpersonal conflicts that promise to unfold throughout the rest of the story. (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.