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The Warden

240 pages, 1984

Takeaways
Description

The Warden is a novel by Anthony Trollope, first published in 1855, that was the first of six novels to be set in the fictional English cathedral town of Barchester. The Warden itself focuses on the honorable cleric Septimus Harding, one of Trollope’s most memorable characters. 

When Harding is accused of mismanaging church funds, his predicament lays bare the complexities of Victorian life and nineteenth-century provincial life. And as Louis Auchincloss observes in his Introduction, “The theme of The Warden presents the kind of social problem that always fascinated Trollope: the inevitable clash between ancient privilege and modern social awareness.”

Exploring the Moral Dilemma

In The Warden, Anthony Trollope presents a moral dilemma that forces us to question our own ethics. The protagonist, Mr. Harding, is faced with a choice between personal comfort and moral righteousness. This book encourages us to explore our own moral compass and consider what we would do in a similar situation.

Understanding the Power of Public Opinion

The Warden shows us the power of public opinion and how it can influence our decisions. Mr. Harding's life is turned upside down due to public scrutiny, leading him to question his own actions. This book encourages us to think about the role of public opinion in our own lives and how it can shape our actions.

Insight into Victorian Society

Through The Warden, we get a glimpse into Victorian society and its values. Trollope paints a vivid picture of the social and political landscape of the time, helping us understand the historical context. If you're interested in history, this book is a great way to dig into the Victorian era.

Exploring the Theme of Responsibility

The Warden is not just a story, but a lesson on responsibility. Mr. Harding's struggle with his role as the warden and his responsibility towards the hospital's residents is a central theme of the book. It encourages us to look into our own responsibilities and how we handle them.

Appreciating Trollope's Narrative Style

One of the key takeaways from The Warden is the appreciation of Trollope's narrative style. He masterfully balances humor and pathos, making the book a delightful read. If you're looking to explore different writing styles, you should definitely check out this book.

Recommendations

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Tim O’Reilly

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13 books

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