What is the primary subject of the Wikipedia article?

The primary subject of the Wikipedia article is "Vanity Fair," a novel written by the English author William Makepeace Thackeray. The novel follows the lives of Becky Sharp and Amelia Sedley amidst their friends and families during and after the Napoleonic Wars.

What was the original subtitle of Vanity Fair when published as a serial?

When first published as a monthly serial from 1847 to 1848, Vanity Fair carried the subtitle "Pen and Pencil Sketches of English Society." This subtitle reflected both its satirical nature and Thackeray's own illustrations that accompanied the text.

What subtitle was given to Vanity Fair when published as a single volume?

Upon its publication as a single volume in 1848, Vanity Fair was given the subtitle "A Novel without a Hero." This subtitle highlighted Thackeray's intention to deconstruct traditional notions of heroism in literature.

How is Vanity Fair sometimes described in relation to Victorian literature?

Vanity Fair is sometimes considered the "principal founder" of the Victorian domestic novel. This designation points to its significant influence on the development of novels focusing on family life and social manners during the Victorian era.

What literary device frames the story of Vanity Fair?

The story of Vanity Fair is framed as a puppet play. This narrative device allows the author to comment on the characters and events from a detached, often satirical, perspective.

From which work does "Vanity Fair" derive its title?

The book's title is derived from John Bunyan's "Pilgrim's Progress," a significant allegory first published in 1678. Bunyan's "Vanity Fair" represents a place of worldly temptation and sin.

What does "Vanity Fair" represent in John Bunyan's "Pilgrim's Progress"?

In Bunyan's work, "Vanity Fair" represents a never-ending fair held in a town called Vanity, symbolizing man's sinful attachment to worldly possessions and pleasures. It serves as a spiritual obstacle for the pilgrim.

How is the narrative of Vanity Fair framed, and what is the narrator's characteristic?

The narrative of Vanity Fair is framed as a puppet show, with the narrator acting as an authorial voice. This narrator is described as somewhat unreliable, often interjecting commentary and admitting to relaying gossip.

Who are the two central female characters introduced early in the novel?

The two central female characters introduced early in the novel are Rebecca Sharp (Becky), a cunning and ambitious young woman from a modest background, and Amelia Sedley (Emmy), a good-natured and naive young girl from a wealthy London family.

What significant event impacts the Sedley family financially, and how does it affect Amelia's prospects?

Amelia's father, John Sedley, goes bankrupt due to ill-advised speculation. This financial ruin negatively impacts Amelia's prospects, as it leads George Osborne's wealthy father to forbid their marriage.

What is George Osborne's fate at the Battle of Waterloo?

George Osborne is killed at the Battle of Waterloo, succumbing to a bullet wound to the heart. His death occurs shortly after his marriage to Amelia.

How does Amelia cope after George's death?

After George's death, Amelia bears his posthumous son and lives in genteel poverty with her parents. She remains devoted to her husband's memory, largely ignoring Captain Dobbin's affections until she learns of George's infidelity.

What is Becky Sharp's defining characteristic and ambition?

Becky Sharp's defining characteristic is her intelligence and cunning, coupled with a strong ambition for social and financial security. Lacking resources, she resolves to navigate society through her wit and manipulation.

How does Becky's relationship with other women differ from her interactions with men?

While Becky is adept at manipulating men, she is generally less successful with women, often being perceived as hostile or untrustworthy. Amelia Sedley stands out as one of the few women with whom Becky maintains a semblance of friendship, largely due to Amelia's inherent kindness.

What classical figures are alluded to in relation to Becky Sharp's character?

Becky Sharp's character is alluded to through various classical figures, including Clytemnestra, Eriphyle, and Arachne. These allusions highlight her complex nature, her capacity for manipulation, and her role in the unfolding drama.

Describe George Osborne's character and his upbringing.

George Osborne is depicted as handsome, vain, and self-obsessed, raised with a sense of entitlement and a tendency towards profligate spending. His upbringing fostered selfishness, which influences his actions throughout the novel.

What is Captain William Dobbin's physical description and social standing compared to George Osborne?

Captain William Dobbin is described as tall, ungainly, and not particularly handsome, contrasting with the dashing George Osborne. Socially, Dobbin's father is a merchant, while the Osbornes belong to a higher social stratum, though Dobbin himself possesses strong moral character.

What ultimately leads to Amelia and Dobbin's reconciliation and marriage?

Amelia's realization of George Osborne's infidelity, revealed through a letter Becky shows her, prompts her to re-evaluate her idealized memory of her husband. This allows her to finally accept Dobbin's long-standing affection, leading to their eventual reconciliation and marriage.

Describe Rawdon Crawley's profession and his relationship with his aunt.

Rawdon Crawley is an empty-headed cavalry officer who was the favorite nephew of his wealthy aunt, Miss Matilda Crawley. However, his secret marriage to Becky Sharp alienates his aunt, leading her to disinherit him.

What is the perception of Rawdon Crawley regarding Becky's relationship with the Marquis of Steyne?

While Rawdon Crawley initially believes in Becky's innocence, others, particularly the Marquis of Steyne, suspect that Rawdon is aware of Becky's affairs and is complicit for financial gain. This perception highlights the social maneuvering and moral ambiguity within the narrative.

What is the fate of Rawdon Crawley?

After discovering the truth about Becky's dealings, Rawdon leaves her and is subsequently assigned as Governor of Coventry Island, where he dies of yellow fever. His departure marks a significant turning point in Becky's social downfall.

Describe Joseph Sedley's background and personality.

Joseph Sedley, Amelia's older brother, is a wealthy "nabob" who earned his fortune in India. He is characterized as obese, self-important, yet also shy and insecure, making him susceptible to manipulation.

What is hinted about Jos Sedley's death?

It is hinted that Joseph Sedley's death may have been suspicious, suggesting that Becky Sharp ensnared him again and possibly murdered him for his life insurance money. This implication adds to the dark undertones of Becky's character.

When did Thackeray likely begin writing "Vanity Fair"?

Thackeray likely began writing "Vanity Fair" in late 1844, although he may have started developing some of its details as early as 1841. The novel was eventually published serially over several years.

What was distinctive about the monthly parts of "Vanity Fair"?

The monthly parts of "Vanity Fair" were distinctive for their canary-yellow covers, which became a signature for Thackeray's serial publications. Each part also featured steel engravings, including a recurring illustration on the cover.

How did Thackeray's illustrations contribute to the plot of "Vanity Fair"?

Thackeray's illustrations were integral to "Vanity Fair," sometimes providing symbolic commentary or even clarifying plot points that were not explicitly stated in the text. For instance, an illustration suggested Becky's guilt in Jos Sedley's death.

What literary figure's style heavily influenced "Vanity Fair"?

The style of "Vanity Fair" is heavily influenced by Henry Fielding, an earlier English novelist known for his satirical works like "Tom Jones." This influence is evident in Thackeray's narrative voice and social commentary.

What was Thackeray's dual intention in writing "Vanity Fair"?

Thackeray intended "Vanity Fair" to be both entertaining and instructive. He believed that the writer's profession was as serious as a parson's, aiming to provide social commentary and moral reflection alongside an engaging story.

How did early reviewers interpret the connection between "Vanity Fair" and "The Pilgrim's Progress"?

Early reviewers readily recognized the connection between "Vanity Fair" and John Bunyan's "The Pilgrim's Progress." They often compared Becky Sharp to Bunyan's Pilgrim and Thackeray himself to Faithful, highlighting the allegorical parallels.

What criticism did some early reviewers have regarding the novel's portrayal of human nature?

Some early reviewers criticized "Vanity Fair" for its relentlessly dark portrayal of human nature, fearing that Thackeray's depiction of folly and selfishness was overly pessimistic. They felt the novel lacked sufficient positive or uplifting elements.

What is the overall message of "Vanity Fair" regarding society and human nature?

The novel presents a bleak view of society and human nature, characterized by hypocrisy, opportunism, and self-interest. It suggests that personal flaws are pervasive and that societal or political changes may not fundamentally alter the human condition.

How does Lord David Cecil describe Thackeray's view of people?

Lord David Cecil described Thackeray's view as recognizing that while people are generally well-intentioned, they are also inherently weak, vain, self-absorbed, and self-deceived. This nuanced perspective shapes the complex characterizations in the novel.

How does "Vanity Fair" compare to Tolstoy's "War and Peace" in its treatment of the Napoleonic Wars?

While Tolstoy's "War and Peace" emphasizes the historical impact of the Napoleonic Wars on its characters, Thackeray uses the conflict primarily as a backdrop. In "Vanity Fair," the momentous events of the war often have less influence on the characters' personal failings than their inherent flaws.

What argument does John Sutherland make against the interpretation of Becky murdering Jos?

John Sutherland argues against the interpretation that Becky murdered Jos, citing Thackeray's known criticism of "Newgate novels" and Victorian crime fiction. Sutherland suggests Thackeray would not have glorified such an act.

What is the earliest known adaptation of "Vanity Fair" mentioned in the text?

The earliest adaptation mentioned is a one-hour radio drama broadcast on January 7, 1940, by CBS Radio's "Campbell Playhouse," hosted by Orson Welles and featuring Helen Hayes and Agnes Moorehead.

Which actress played Becky Sharp in the 1967 BBC television serial, and what award did she receive?

Susan Hampshire played Becky Sharp in the 1967 BBC television serial adaptation of "Vanity Fair." For her performance, she received an Emmy Award in 1973.

What was notable about the 1935 film adaptation titled "Becky Sharp"?

The 1935 film adaptation titled "Becky Sharp" holds historical significance as it was the first feature film to be shot entirely in full-spectrum Technicolor. This pioneering use of color aimed to enhance the visual storytelling.

Who starred as Becky Sharp in the 2004 film adaptation directed by Mira Nair?

Reese Witherspoon starred as Becky Sharp in the 2004 film adaptation of "Vanity Fair," directed by Mira Nair. Witherspoon's portrayal offered a more sympathetic interpretation of the character.

What is the significance of Al Murray's involvement in the 2019 BBC Radio 4 adaptation?

Al Murray, who is a descendant of William Makepeace Thackeray, contributed additional material to the 2019 BBC Radio 4 adaptation and also performed the role of Thackeray himself. This connection added a unique layer to the production.

Name two silent film adaptations of "Vanity Fair" mentioned in the text.

Two silent film adaptations of "Vanity Fair" mentioned are the 1911 version directed by Charles Kent and the 1915 version directed by Charles Brabin. These early cinematic interpretations brought Thackeray's novel to the screen for the first time.

What did Thackeray mean by the subtitle "A Novel without a Hero" in relation to Thomas Carlyle?

The subtitle "A Novel without a Hero" was also intended as a subtle critique or commentary on Thomas Carlyle's "Lectures on Hero and Hero-Worship." It challenged the conventional idea of a singular heroic figure in literature.

Where can one find original text related to "Vanity Fair (novel)"?

Original text related to "Vanity Fair (novel)" can be accessed on English Wikisource. This platform provides access to the novel's original text for study and reference.

What other Wikimedia projects have resources related to "Vanity Fair (novel)"?

Wikimedia Commons hosts media related to "Vanity Fair (novel)," such as illustrations and film stills, while Wikiquote offers quotations from and about the novel. These resources provide additional context and visual material.

Vanity Fair Novel Wiki: Thackeray's Mirror: Deconstructing Vanity Fair

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The Title's Significance

Origin and Meaning

The novel's title, Vanity Fair, is directly drawn from John Bunyan's seminal 17th-century allegory, The Pilgrim's Progress. In Bunyan's work, Vanity Fair represents a town and a marketplace symbolizing the sinful attachment to worldly possessions and ephemeral pleasures, a significant obstacle on the pilgrim's spiritual journey.^[a]^[6]^[7] Thackeray, while not explicitly referencing Bunyan in the text, clearly expected his audience to recognize the allusion, employing it to frame his critique of early 19th-century British society.

Societal Critique

Thackeray utilizes the concept of Vanity Fair to satirize the pervasive materialism, social climbing, and moral compromises prevalent in his era. The novel deconstructs the conventional notions of heroism, presenting characters who are deeply flawed and driven by self-interest, ambition, and social aspiration. The subtitle, A Novel without a Hero, underscores this critical perspective, suggesting that genuine heroism is elusive amidst the self-serving machinations of society.

Authorial Intent

Thackeray viewed his writing as a serious endeavor, akin to that of a clergyman, aiming not only to entertain but also to instruct. He believed the novel reflected the "abominably foolish and selfish" nature of humanity, extending his critique across all social strata. The narrative voice, often unreliable and commenting directly on the characters and readers, reinforces this didactic purpose, urging introspection regarding personal failings and societal vanities.^[9]

Narrative Arc: Plot Summary

Setting the Stage

Set against the backdrop of the Napoleonic Wars, the narrative primarily follows the intertwined lives of two contrasting young women: the intelligent, ambitious, and socially mobile Rebecca Sharp ("Becky"), and the kind-hearted, naive, yet ultimately passive Amelia Sedley ("Emmy"). Their journeys unfold amidst their families and social circles, charting their ascent and descent through the complexities of English society.

War and Social Upheaval

The story commences in London, 1814, with Becky leaving school and entering the Sedley household. Following the financial ruin of the Sedley family and George Osborne's defiance of his father to marry the impoverished Amelia, the narrative moves to Brussels. The impending Battle of Waterloo serves as a dramatic pivot, leading to the death of George Osborne and impacting the fortunes of many characters, including Captain Rawdon Crawley and William Dobbin.

Divergent Paths

Post-war, Amelia returns to genteel poverty, devoted to her son and the memory of George, while ignoring the affections of Captain Dobbin. Becky, meanwhile, navigates Parisian and London society with increasing success, leveraging her wit and charm, often aided by figures like the Marquis of Steyne. Her marriage to Rawdon Crawley faces significant challenges, culminating in separation and her eventual decline into destitution before a partial, ambiguous recovery.

Key Characters

Amelia Sedley

Initially presented as the novel's heroine, Amelia is characterized by her gentle nature, passivity, and naiveté. Her unwavering devotion to her deceased husband, George Osborne, shapes her life, leading her to neglect the persistent affections of Captain Dobbin. Dominated by her parents and clinging to idealized memories, Amelia's character arc highlights the limitations of sentimentality divorced from reality.^[27]^[28]

Rebecca Sharp

Becky Sharp stands as Amelia's antithesis: intelligent, resourceful, amoral, and driven by a relentless pursuit of social security and status. Orphaned and penniless, she employs manipulation, wit, and charm to navigate society, often blurring the lines between social climbing and outright deceit. Her complex character, often viewed as the novel's anti-heroine, prompts critical examination of societal constraints and individual ambition.^[33]^[34]

William Dobbin

Captain Dobbin, George Osborne's loyal friend, is depicted as tall, ungainly, yet fundamentally decent. Despite his unrequited love for Amelia, he consistently acts with integrity, supporting both George and Amelia. His patient devotion and eventual disillusionment portray the quiet suffering and often unrewarded virtue within the social milieu.^[62]

Rawdon Crawley

Rawdon, the younger son of the Crawley family, is a charming but financially irresponsible cavalry officer. His marriage to Becky alienates his wealthy aunt, impacting his prospects. While possessing a certain rough integrity, he is often manipulated by Becky and ultimately falls victim to societal and financial pressures, leading to his departure and eventual death abroad.^[23]

Pitt Crawley

Sir Pitt Crawley, Rawdon's elder brother, inherits the family estates and embodies a more conventional, albeit somewhat pedantic, figure of the landed gentry. Influenced by his wife, Lady Jane, he maintains a distance from Rawdon and Becky, representing a more staid aspect of the social hierarchy.

Miss Matilda Crawley

The wealthy and eccentric aunt of the Crawley brothers, Miss Crawley wields significant influence through her inheritance. She favors Rawdon until his marriage to Becky, demonstrating a complex mix of affection, social judgment, and a penchant for scandal.

Joseph Sedley

Amelia's older brother, Jos Sedley, is a wealthy but obese, vain, and timid "nabob" returned from India. Easily manipulated by Becky, his character exemplifies the social anxieties and physical decline associated with wealth acquired outside the traditional English aristocracy. His eventual death, possibly at Becky's hand, provides her with financial security.^[26]

Publication and Form

Serial Publication

Vanity Fair was initially published in 20 monthly installments between January 1847 and July 1848. This serial format was common for novels of the era, allowing authors to build readership and adapt the narrative based on feedback. Each part featured Thackeray's distinctive steel engravings, including the iconic canary-yellow cover that became his signature, differentiating his work from contemporaries like Charles Dickens.

The Bound Edition

Upon completion of the serial run, the novel was published as a collected volume in 1848, bearing the subtitle A Novel without a Hero. This subtitle encapsulates Thackeray's critical stance on the lack of traditional heroic figures within the narrative, reflecting his realistic portrayal of flawed human nature.^[47]^[48]

Thackeray's Illustrations

Thackeray's illustrations were integral to the novel's presentation, often providing symbolic commentary or clarifying plot points not explicitly stated in the text. Some illustrations, like Becky depicted as a mermaid or Clytemnestra, offered nuanced interpretations of character motivations and societal commentary, sometimes pushing the boundaries of contemporary propriety.^[40]^[53]

Critical Reception and Analysis

Contemporary Acclaim

The novel garnered significant critical acclaim even before its serial conclusion, with contemporaries like Charlotte Brontë praising Thackeray's insightful illustrations and his profound grasp of human character. The work was widely recognized as a major literary achievement, solidifying Thackeray's reputation.

Themes and Realism

Vanity Fair is lauded for its unflinching realism, portraying characters with complex, often contradictory, motivations. Thackeray's critique extends beyond individual flaws to encompass societal hypocrisy, materialism, and snobbery. The novel's bleak outlook on human nature and the lack of clear moral exemplars distinguish it from more idealized Victorian narratives.^[58]

Narrative Voice and Structure

Thackeray employs a distinctive narrative voice—omniscient, yet often unreliable and intrusive—that engages directly with the reader. This technique, combined with the novel's sprawling structure and numerous allusions, contributes to its unique literary texture, though it can present challenges for modern interpretation.^[61]

Cultural Adaptations

Radio Broadcasts

The novel has been adapted numerous times for radio, including notable productions on CBS Radio's Campbell Playhouse hosted by Orson Welles (1940), NBC Radio's Favorite Story (1947), and multiple BBC Radio 4 adaptations (2004, 2019), showcasing the enduring appeal of Thackeray's narrative across auditory mediums.

Cinematic and Television Versions

Numerous film and television adaptations exist, spanning from early silent films (1911, 1915, 1922, 1923) to sound films like the 1935 Becky Sharp (notable for its early use of Technicolor) and Mira Nair's 2004 version starring Reese Witherspoon. Television miniseries, including BBC productions from 1956, 1967, and 1987, and a 1998 adaptation, have further brought the story to life.

Stage and Literary Interpretations

The novel's characters and plot have inspired stage adaptations, including plays by Langdon Mitchell (1899) and Constance Cox (1946), as well as contemporary musical and theatrical interpretations. Furthermore, modern fiction, such as Sarah May's 2023 novel Becky, continues to engage with Thackeray's characters and themes.

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References

"It beareth the name of Vanity Fair, because the town where it is kept is 'lighter than vanity."[5]

The trio of lawyers Becky gets to defend herself from the claimsâBurke, Thurtell, and Hayesâare named after prominent murderers of the time, although this may have been a tease or commentary on the legal profession itself.

Milne (2015), p. 103.

Milne (2015), p. 104

Milne (2015), p. 102.

Milne (2015), p. 110

Heiler (2010), p. 61.

Sutherland (1988), "Vanity Fair".

Wilson & al. (1970), p. 86.

Milne (2015), p. 110â111.

Milne (2015), p. 108.

Wilson & al. (1970), p. 13.

Wilson & al. (1970), p. 85.

Wilson & al. (1970), p. 8.

Milne (2015), p. 111.

Yarmarka tshcheslaviya at IMDb

A full list of references for this article are available at the Vanity Fair (novel) Wikipedia page

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This document has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence, drawing upon publicly available data, primarily from Wikipedia. It is intended for academic and educational purposes, offering an analytical perspective on William Makepeace Thackeray's Vanity Fair.

This is not a substitute for scholarly research or primary source analysis. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and adherence to the source material, the content may contain interpretations or omissions. Readers are encouraged to consult original scholarly works and primary texts for comprehensive understanding. The AI is not responsible for any errors, omissions, or actions taken based on the information presented herein.

Thackeray's Mirror

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The Title's Significance 📖

📜 Origin and Meaning

🎭 Societal Critique

🤔 Authorial Intent

Narrative Arc: Plot Summary 📜

🌍 Setting the Stage

⚔️ War and Social Upheaval

🎭 Divergent Paths

Key Characters 🎭

🌟 Amelia Sedley

🐍 Rebecca Sharp

🛡️ William Dobbin

💰 Rawdon Crawley

🧐 Pitt Crawley

👵 Miss Matilda Crawley

🐷 Joseph Sedley

Publication and Form 📅

📰 Serial Publication

📖 The Bound Edition

🎨 Thackeray's Illustrations

Critical Reception and Analysis 💬

⭐ Contemporary Acclaim

🧐 Themes and Realism

⚖️ Narrative Voice and Structure

Cultural Adaptations 🎬

📻 Radio Broadcasts

🎞️ Cinematic and Television Versions

🎭 Stage and Literary Interpretations

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

📜 References

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Academic Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

The Title's Significance

Origin and Meaning

Societal Critique

Authorial Intent

Narrative Arc: Plot Summary

Setting the Stage

War and Social Upheaval

Divergent Paths

Key Characters

Amelia Sedley

Rebecca Sharp

William Dobbin

Rawdon Crawley

Pitt Crawley

Miss Matilda Crawley

Joseph Sedley

Publication and Form

Serial Publication

The Bound Edition

Thackeray's Illustrations

Critical Reception and Analysis

Contemporary Acclaim

Themes and Realism

Narrative Voice and Structure

Cultural Adaptations

Radio Broadcasts

Cinematic and Television Versions

Stage and Literary Interpretations

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Academic Disclaimer

Important Notice