William M. Thackeray
William M. Thackeray
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Full Name and Common Aliases
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William Makepeace Thackeray was a renowned English novelist, satirist, and illustrator, best known for his novels of manners that captured the essence of Victorian England.
Birth and Death Dates
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Thackeray was born on July 18, 1811, in Calcutta, India, where his father served as an officer in the British East India Company. He passed away on December 24, 1863, at the age of 52.
Nationality and Profession(s)
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Thackeray held dual nationality, being born to English parents in India. His profession was that of a novelist, satirist, and illustrator. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest English novelists of his time.
Early Life and Background
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Thackeray's childhood was marked by instability due to his family's frequent relocations between England and India. His father's financial struggles forced Thackeray to attend a series of schools, including Charterhouse School in London, where he excelled academically but struggled with discipline. At the age of 16, Thackeray ran away from school and joined a ship bound for South America, but ultimately returned home after a few months.
Major Accomplishments
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Thackeray's writing career spanned over three decades, during which he produced some of his most iconic works. He is perhaps best known for his novel `Vanity Fair`, published in 1847-48, which satirizes the excesses and superficiality of the upper class during the Napoleonic Wars. Other notable novels include `The Luck of Barry Lyndon` (1844), `Pendennis` (1850), and `The Newcomes` (1855).
Notable Works or Actions
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Thackeray's writing style was characterized by his wit, satire, and social commentary. He is credited with revolutionizing the English novel by introducing a more realistic and nuanced portrayal of society. Thackeray's illustrations also added to the charm of his novels, showcasing his artistic talent.
Impact and Legacy
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Thackeray's influence on English literature cannot be overstated. His works have been widely praised for their insightful commentary on Victorian society, as well as their memorable characters and plotlines. Thackeray's legacy extends beyond literature; he has inspired numerous adaptations of his novels into films, plays, and television series.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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Thackeray is remembered for his biting wit, sharp social commentary, and his ability to capture the essence of Victorian England. His quotes continue to be widely referenced in literature, art, and popular culture. Thackeray's influence can still be seen today in the works of writers such as Anthony Trollope and Thomas Hardy.
Thackeray's impact extends beyond the literary world; his novels have become a window into the past, offering readers a glimpse into the values, customs, and social norms of 19th-century England. His writing continues to captivate audiences with its wit, humor, and insight, making him one of the most beloved and enduring figures in English literature.
"A little sincerity is a dangerous thing, and a great deal of it is absolutely fatal."
ā William M. Thackeray
Thackeray's quotes continue to inspire and provoke readers, offering a glimpse into his sharp wit and insightful commentary on society. As we reflect on his life and works, it becomes clear that Thackeray's impact will be felt for generations to come.
Quotes by William M. Thackeray
And oh, what a mercy it is that these women do not exercise their powers oftener! We can't resist them, if they do. Let them show ever so little inclination, and men go down on their knees at once: old or ugly, it is all the same. And this I set down as a positive truth. A woman with fair opportunities, and without an absolute hump, may marry whom she likes. Only let us be thankful that the darlings are like the beasts of the field, and don't know their own power. They would overcome us entirely if they did.
Come, children, let us shut up the box and the puppets, for our play is played out.
By economy and good management -- by a sparing use of ready money and by paying scarcely anybody, -- people can manage to make a great show with very little means.
Certain opuscules, denominated 'Christmas Books,' with the ostensible intention of swelling the tide of exhilaration, or other expansive emotions, incident upon the exodus of the old and the inauguration of the new year
Christmas is here: Winds whistle shrill, Icy and chill, Little care we; Little we fear Weather without, Sheltered about The Mahogany Tree
The two most engaging powers of a good author are to make new things familiar and familiar things new.
Everyone knows the harm the bad do, but who knows the mischief done by the good?