The Trollope Companion

'A treat for Trollopians - all you want to know in 550 pages.' Sunday Telegraph 'All of Trollope's books get substantial entries in his excellent new companion to his works. But it is far more than a mere reference book. There are also delightful entries - more like short essays - on numerous general aspects of his writing.' The Times The Trollope Companion is the most complete guide to the life and writings of Anthony Trollope. Lengthy entries are given for all 47 of Trollope's novels as well as his other books of short stories, travels and non-fiction. The entries put each work into the context of the time and give the publishing history as well as describing the reactions to each book. The entries show how often Trollope's own experiences were used in his fiction and how he drew on contemporary issues and personalities whether it be those like Cardinal Newman whom he admired or Disraeli whom he detested. There are also entries on important topics such Trollope's religious and political views as well as how such seemingly obscure references such as carriages or hearth rugs were understood by most Victorian readers but almost unknown to today's readers. Important characters in his fiction have entries which are particularly useful for readers who may have forgotten their portrayal in earlier books. Trollope's attitudes and portrayals of various countries and important personalities of his time are described and put into context. The social and economic background in Trollope's fiction is explained with lengthy entries on 'money', 'landed estates', 'entails', and 'gentleman'. Anthony Trollope's ever growing band of current admirers will revere him all the more and understand his novels all the better from having this useful and enjoyable Companion available every time they begin a new Trollope novel.