Sybil, Or, The Two Nations

by Benjamin Disraeli

Book Overview

Sybil, or The Two Nations is one of the finest novels to depict the social problems of class-ridden Victorian England. The book's publication in 1845 created a sensation, for its immediacy and readability brought the plight of the working classes sharply to the attention of the reading public. The 'two nations' of the alternative title are the rich and poor, so disparate in their opportunities and living conditions, and so hostile to each other. that...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1727769589
• ISBN13: 9781727769586
• Release Date: October 2018
• Publisher: Createspace Independent Publishing Platform
• Length: 314 Pages
• Weight: 0.93 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 6.0" x 9.0"

Customer Reviews

One Nation Toryism

Since Sybil was written, English Conservative politicians have claimed the mantle of "One Nation" toryism. The line is to be found in this book, which was written before its author rose to become one of the two (perhaps four, if Palmerston and Salisbury are included with Gladstone) of the greatest Prime Ministers of the nineteenth century. It tells an elaborate tale of Victorian political intrigue intermingled with the author's view of the English class system. In Sir Vavasour Firebrace, and his attempts to enhance the status of the Baronetcy (a title created by James the First for sale to pay for overseas settlement) Disraeli creates a great comic character. Not up to the best of Anthony Trollope, but well worth a read for those interested in British political history of the nineteenth century.