The Timeless Wit of William Makepeace Thackeray: A Journey Through His Greatest Works

When we think of Victorian literature, one name stands out for its biting wit, social satire, and captivating storytelling—William Makepeace Thackeray. Often overshadowed by his contemporary Charles Dickens, Thackeray carved out his own space in the literary world with works that are as humorous as they are deeply critical of 19th-century society. While he wasn’t as prolific as Dickens, his novels, essays, and stories have left an indelible mark on English literature. So, why should you read Thackeray? Let’s dive into some fun facts about the man himself and his most notable works.

                              

 From Artist to Satirist: The Early Days of Thackeray

Before becoming the renowned author we know today, Thackeray dabbled in journalism and art, often illustrating his own stories. He even spent some time in Paris trying to become a painter—an ambition that fizzled out but nonetheless left a creative imprint on his later writings. His early foray into literature, particularly with The Paris Sketch Book (1840), reveals his knack for poking fun at both British and French societies.

The Paris Sketch Book (1840): Thackeray’s First Dive into Satire

The Paris Sketch Book might not be as well-known as Thackeray’s later works, but it offers a delightful glimpse into his early style. Written as a collection of essays and stories, it presents Thackeray’s observations of Parisian life. His descriptions of French customs, art, and politics are sharp and often laugh-out-loud funny, but also tinged with a sense of cultural critique. If you’ve ever wondered what 19th-century Paris looked like through the eyes of a wry British observer, this is your book. Through these sketches, Thackeray’s trademark satirical voice begins to emerge, marking the start of his literary career.

Vanity Fair (1847-48): Thackeray’s Masterpiece of Social Satire

Of course, no conversation about Thackeray is complete without mentioning Vanity Fair. Subtitled "A Novel Without a Hero," this book is a scathing commentary on the social climbing and moral decay of British high society. The central character, Becky Sharp, is one of the most memorable anti-heroines in literature—cunning, ambitious, and unapologetically manipulative. What makes Vanity Fair so compelling is not just its critique of societal norms but the way Thackeray pulls the reader into the complex, often morally gray world of his characters. You can almost hear his voice chuckling in the background as he exposes the follies of human ambition. The illustrations (by Thackeray himself!) further add to the novel's charm, making it an immersive experience in satire and wit.

Pendennis (1848-50): The Semi-Autobiographical Journey

Pendennis is a lesser-known gem, but it’s one that gives readers a window into Thackeray’s own life. The protagonist, Arthur Pendennis, navigates the pitfalls of early adulthood—university life, love, and the desire to become a writer. Though fictional, there are strong parallels to Thackeray’s own experiences as a young man. Pendennis’ journey is filled with romantic misadventures, societal expectations, and the struggle to make a name for himself in the literary world, all while maintaining Thackeray’s signature humor and critique of societal expectations. The novel explores the tension between personal ambition and the rigid structures of society, making it deeply relatable even today.

The History of Henry Esmond (1852): A Historical Epic

With The History of Henry Esmond, Thackeray veered into historical fiction, setting the novel during the tumultuous times of Queen Anne’s reign. This work is more serious in tone compared to his other novels, and yet, it doesn’t shy away from his trademark satire. Henry Esmond, the titular character, is an illegitimate son who rises through the ranks, his life intertwined with historical events. Thackeray’s careful attention to historical detail paired with his biting critique of the aristocracy makes this novel a fascinating mix of fact and fiction. It showcases Thackeray’s ability to weave complex narratives while commenting on the absurdities of the past and present.

Cornhill Magazine (1860): Thackeray, the Editor

As if being a celebrated author wasn’t enough, Thackeray also dabbled in magazine editing. In 1860, he became the first editor of Cornhill Magazine, a highly respected literary periodical that published many great authors of the time, including Thomas Hardy and Anthony Trollope. His time as editor allowed him to shape Victorian literary tastes and gave him a platform to voice his opinions on the literary and social issues of the day. Even in this role, Thackeray’s wit and sharp commentary remained at the forefront, influencing the magazine’s tone.

Why Read Thackeray Today?

So, why should you pick up Thackeray today? What makes him so interesting? Simply put, Thackeray’s works transcend time. His ability to blend humor with serious social commentary makes his novels not just entertaining but thought-provoking. He was a master at pointing out the absurdities of human behavior, whether it was in the drawing rooms of London’s high society or the streets of Paris. His characters are multifaceted—often flawed, sometimes unlikeable, but always compelling. If you enjoy novels that challenge societal norms while making you laugh, Thackeray is your guy.

Conclusion: The Timelessness of Thackeray’s Wit

William Makepeace Thackeray may not have achieved the same level of commercial fame as Dickens, but his legacy is no less significant. His works offer a window into the complexities of human nature, exposing the ambitions, hypocrisies, and desires that drive us all. Whether you’re delving into the ambitious world of Becky Sharp in Vanity Fair or following Arthur Pendennis’ coming-of-age journey, Thackeray's stories remain as relevant today as they were in the 19th century. And that, dear reader, is why Thackeray remains a must-read for anyone who appreciates clever storytelling laced with sharp social critique.

So next time you’re in the mood for a Victorian novel, don’t just reach for Dickens—give Thackeray a try. You’ll find yourself laughing, thinking, and perhaps even re-evaluating the world around you.