The Disowned By: Edward George Bulwer-Lytton (1803-1873)
"The Disowned" by Edward George Bulwer-Lytton is a riveting tale that takes readers on a journey through the tumultuous and complex world of 18th-century England. Set against a backdrop of societal expectations and family dynamics, this novel explores the themes of self-discovery, love, and the pursuit of personal freedom. The story follows the life of Ernest Maltravers, the disowned heir of an aristocratic family. From his early years, Ernest is cast aside by his callous and self-centered father, forcing him to make his own way in the world. Determined to rise above his status as an outcast, Ernest embarks on a quest for knowledge and personal growth. Bulwer-Lytton's writing style is both eloquent and descriptive, transporting readers to the enchanting and often treacherous world of 18th-century England. His vivid descriptions of the landscapes, fashions, and social customs of the era allow readers to immerse themselves fully in the story, creating a captivating reading experience. What sets "The Disowned" apart from other novels of its time is the author's exploration of the inner workings of his characters' minds. Bulwer-Lytton masterfully delves into the psychology of his protagonists, offering readers a deep understanding of their hopes, fears, and motivations. Here, we witness the inner struggles of Ernest as he battles with his sense of identity and his longing for acceptance. More than just a coming-of-age story, "The Disowned" is a social critique of the aristocratic society of the time. Bulwer-Lytton sheds light on the hypocrisy and emptiness that often pervades the lives of the upper class. The author challenges traditional notions of class and social status, advocating for the importance of individual worth and personal growth. While the pacing of the novel may be a bit slow at times, the rich character development and vivid imagery keep readers engaged. Bulwer-Lytton's thoughtful exploration of moral dilemmas and the complexities of human nature adds depth and substance to the narrative. Overall, "The Disowned" is a thought-provoking and beautifully written novel that combines elements of romance, adventure, and social commentary. Bulwer-Lytton's ability to create compelling characters and transport readers to a different time and place is truly commendable. This book will appeal to literary enthusiasts who appreciate a well-crafted story with a strong sense of moral exploration. First Page: THE DISOWNED by Edward Bulwer Lytton CHAPTER I. I'll tell you a story if you please to attend. G. KNIGHT: Limbo. It was the evening of a soft, warm day in the May of 17 . The sun had already set, and the twilight was gathering slowly over the large, still masses of wood which lay on either side of one of those green lanes so peculiar to England. Here and there, the outline of the trees irregularly shrunk back from the road, leaving broad patches of waste land covered with fern and the yellow blossoms of the dwarf furze, and at more distant intervals thick clusters of rushes, from which came the small hum of gnats, those "evening revellers" alternately rising and sinking in the customary manner of their unknown sports, till, as the shadows grew darker and darker, their thin and airy shapes were no longer distinguishable, and no solitary token of life or motion broke the voiceless monotony of the surrounding woods. The first sound which invaded the silence came from the light, quick footsteps of a person whose youth betrayed itself in its elastic and unmeasured tread, and in the gay, free carol which broke out by fits and starts upon the gentle stillness of the evening. There was something rather indicative of poetical taste than musical science in the selection of this vesper hymn, which always commenced with, "'T is merry, 't is merry, in good green wood," and never proceeded a syllable further than the end of the second line, "when birds are about and singing;" from the last word of which, after a brief pause, it invariably started forth into joyous "iteration... Continue reading book >>

The Disowned By: Edward George Bulwer-Lytton (1803-1873)

"The Disowned" by Edward George Bulwer-Lytton is a riveting tale that takes readers on a journey through the tumultuous and complex world of 18th-century England. Set against a backdrop of societal expectations and family dynamics, this novel explores the themes of self-discovery, love, and the pursuit of personal freedom.

The story follows the life of Ernest Maltravers, the disowned heir of an aristocratic family. From his early years, Ernest is cast aside by his callous and self-centered father, forcing him to make his own way in the world. Determined to rise above his status as an outcast, Ernest embarks on a quest for knowledge and personal growth.

Bulwer-Lytton's writing style is both eloquent and descriptive, transporting readers to the enchanting and often treacherous world of 18th-century England. His vivid descriptions of the landscapes, fashions, and social customs of the era allow readers to immerse themselves fully in the story, creating a captivating reading experience.

What sets "The Disowned" apart from other novels of its time is the author's exploration of the inner workings of his characters' minds. Bulwer-Lytton masterfully delves into the psychology of his protagonists, offering readers a deep understanding of their hopes, fears, and motivations. Here, we witness the inner struggles of Ernest as he battles with his sense of identity and his longing for acceptance.

More than just a coming-of-age story, "The Disowned" is a social critique of the aristocratic society of the time. Bulwer-Lytton sheds light on the hypocrisy and emptiness that often pervades the lives of the upper class. The author challenges traditional notions of class and social status, advocating for the importance of individual worth and personal growth.

While the pacing of the novel may be a bit slow at times, the rich character development and vivid imagery keep readers engaged. Bulwer-Lytton's thoughtful exploration of moral dilemmas and the complexities of human nature adds depth and substance to the narrative.

Overall, "The Disowned" is a thought-provoking and beautifully written novel that combines elements of romance, adventure, and social commentary. Bulwer-Lytton's ability to create compelling characters and transport readers to a different time and place is truly commendable. This book will appeal to literary enthusiasts who appreciate a well-crafted story with a strong sense of moral exploration.

First Page:

THE DISOWNED

by Edward Bulwer Lytton

CHAPTER I.

I'll tell you a story if you please to attend. G. KNIGHT: Limbo.

It was the evening of a soft, warm day in the May of 17 . The sun had already set, and the twilight was gathering slowly over the large, still masses of wood which lay on either side of one of those green lanes so peculiar to England. Here and there, the outline of the trees irregularly shrunk back from the road, leaving broad patches of waste land covered with fern and the yellow blossoms of the dwarf furze, and at more distant intervals thick clusters of rushes, from which came the small hum of gnats, those "evening revellers" alternately rising and sinking in the customary manner of their unknown sports, till, as the shadows grew darker and darker, their thin and airy shapes were no longer distinguishable, and no solitary token of life or motion broke the voiceless monotony of the surrounding woods.

The first sound which invaded the silence came from the light, quick footsteps of a person whose youth betrayed itself in its elastic and unmeasured tread, and in the gay, free carol which broke out by fits and starts upon the gentle stillness of the evening.

There was something rather indicative of poetical taste than musical science in the selection of this vesper hymn, which always commenced with,

"'T is merry, 't is merry, in good green wood,"

and never proceeded a syllable further than the end of the second line,

"when birds are about and singing;"

from the last word of which, after a brief pause, it invariably started forth into joyous "iteration... Continue reading book >>

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Wikipedia – The Disowned

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