Returning Home by Anthony Trollope

Name: Returning Home
Author: Anthony Trollope

Returning Home by Anthony Trollope is a novel that explores the themes of identity, class, and social status. The story follows the character of John Caldwell, who has just returned from a long stay in India, where he served as a colonial administrator. Upon his return to England, John finds himself struggling to adjust to the societal norms and expectations of his peers, as he grapples with his own sense of identity and purpose. Throughout the novel, Trollope examines the complexities of social hierarchy and the ways in which individuals are judged and evaluated based on their class and status. John's experiences serve as a microcosm for the broader societal issues of the time, highlighting the tensions between tradition and modernity, and the challenges faced by those who find themselves caught between different worlds. Overall, Returning Home is a thought-provoking and insightful exploration of identity, class, and social status, offering a nuanced and compelling portrayal of the human experience.

By Anthony Trollope · First published 1875 · Genre: Romance, Drama, Historical Fiction · 10,044 words

First lines

It is generally supposed that people who live at home -- good domestic people, who love tea and their armchairs, and who keep the parlour hearthrug ever warm -- it is generally supposed that these are the people who value home the most, and best appreciate all the comforts of that cherished institution. I am inclined to doubt this. It is, I think, to those who live farthest away from home, to those who find the greatest difficulty in visiting home, that the word conveys the sweetest idea. In some distant parts of the world it may be that an Englishman acknowledges his permanent resting place; but there are many others in which he will not call his daily house, his home. He would, in his own idea, desecrate the word by doing so. His home is across the blue waters, in the little northern island, which perhaps he may visit no more; which he has left, at any rate, for half his life; from which circumstances, and the necessity of living, have banished him.

What this Textopian page supports

Returning Home is listed on Textopian as a short story by Anthony Trollope, dated 1875 CE.

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Work type: Short story
Author: Anthony Trollope
Date: 1875 CE
Language: English
Genres: Romance, Drama, Historical Fiction, Literary Fiction
Length: 10,044 words
Structure: 1 section, 113 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Discussion starters

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Similar titles

Genres

Romance — Anthony Trollope is known for his romance narratives and 'Returning Home' is no different.
Drama — The novel’s intricate personal relationship dynamics and emotional intensity categorize it as a drama.
Historical Fiction — The novel is set in a different time period with authentic descriptions and experiences typical of historical fiction.
Literary Fiction — Returning Home showcases Trollope's prowess in creating intricate characters and his masterful use of language evident in literary fiction.