Vivian Grey by Benjamin Disraeli

Name: Vivian Grey
Author: Benjamin Disraeli

Vivian Grey is a novel written by Benjamin Disraeli, published in 1826. The story follows the life of a young man named Vivian Grey, who seeks to improve his social status and become a successful politician. Throughout the novel, Grey navigates various challenges and conflicts, including his own personal struggles and the political machinations of the time. Ultimately, Grey's ambition and desire for power lead him down a path of destruction, highlighting the dangers of unchecked ambition and the importance of humility and integrity in public life.

By Benjamin Disraeli · First published 1826 · Genre: Political Fiction, Social Fiction, Coming-of-Age · 60 chapters · 230,140 words

First lines

We are not aware that the infancy of Vivian Grey was distinguished by any extraordinary incident. The solicitude of the most affectionate of mothers, and the care of the most attentive of nurses, did their best to injure an excellent constitution. But Vivian was an only child, and these exertions were therefore excusable. For the first five years of his life, with his curly locks and his fancy dress, he was the pride of his own and the envy of all neighbouring establishments; but, in process of time, the spirit of boyism began to develop itself, and Vivian not only would brush his hair straight and rebel against his nurse, but actually insisted upon being -- breeched! At this crisis it was discovered that he had been spoiled, and it was determined that he should be sent to school. Mr. Grey observed, also, that the child was nearly ten years old, and did not know his alphabet, and Mrs. Grey remarked that he was getting ugly. The fate of Vivian was decided.

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Vivian Grey is listed on Textopian as a novel by Benjamin Disraeli, dated 1826 CE.

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Work type: Novel
Author: Benjamin Disraeli
Date: 1826 CE
Language: English
Genres: Political Fiction, Social Fiction, Coming-of-Age, Historical Fiction, Bildungsroman
Length: 230,140 words
Structure: 79 chapters, 3,036 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Political Fiction — The book is about a young man who aspires to become prime minister, thereby exploring the political landscape, structures, and scenarios of the time.
Social Fiction — The book reflects upon different aspects of society such as class system, power dynamics, influence, and social norms during its period.
Coming-of-Age — Central to the book's theme is the growth and personal development of Vivian Grey amidst the political and social pressures.
Historical Fiction — Though not primarily focused on historical events, the book provides an insight into the socio-political conditions of the era, making it a work of historical fiction.