Exploring Anthony Trollope discussion

First published in serial form in 1864 and 1865, this is the first of six novels in the Palliser series. The novel follows three parallel stories of courtship and marriage and the decisions of three strong female characters: Alice Vavasor, her cousin Glencora Palliser, and her aunt Arabella Greenow. Early on, Alice asks the question "What should a woman do with her life?" This theme repeats itself in the delimmas faced by the other women in the novel. Lady Glencora and her husband Plantagenet Palliser recur in the remainder of the Palliser series.

The satirical periodical Punch mocked the novel, referring to it as Can You Stand Her? due to the critic's irritation at Alice's ineptitude in deciding between her two suitors.

I just finished reading it, and really enjoyed it. Alice didn't really bother me, but Glencora did! My favorite parts were of Mr. Cheesacre and the Captain. Great comedy.

I hope you liked it enough to continue the series. You will meet Glencora again and perhaps like her more.

This is my review.

I do intend to carry on with the series. I guess I had better get to like her then. :D

I liked your review, Elizabeth, and I completely agree with you.

Denise wrote: "I do intend to carry on with the series. I guess I had better get to like her then. :D"

Or maybe not. ;-) Sometimes it's good to have a character you love to hate. I'm currently reading The Prime Minister. I've rated all in the series 5 stars so far, but I think my favorites were the two Phineas Finn ones.