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Sir Charles Grandison
First published in 1753, Richardson's third novel was immensely popular. Richardson draws on every kind of narrative technique in this intricate and logically patterned novel. He creates a work that is at once a novel of manners, a novel of sensibility, a Gothic novel--a variety of genres
that highlight his gift for witty character sketch and brisk dialogue.
that highlight his gift for witty character sketch and brisk dialogue.
1629 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1753
15 people are currently reading
838 people want to read
About the author
Samuel Richardson
1,679 books211 followers
Pamela
(1740) and
Clarissa Harlowe
(1748) of English writer Samuel Richardson helped to legitimize the novel as a literary form in English.
An established printer and publisher for most of his life, Richardson wrote his first novel at the age of 51. He is best known for his major 18th-century epistolary novel Sir Charles Grandison (1753).
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samuel_...
An established printer and publisher for most of his life, Richardson wrote his first novel at the age of 51. He is best known for his major 18th-century epistolary novel Sir Charles Grandison (1753).
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samuel_...
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
April 15, 2019
Before going onto my review of Samuel Richardson's The History of Sir Charles Grandison which took me a month to read, I wanted for myself to make a comment for remembering in the future what I was reading during a difficult time, as I did for my brother's death in 2016, I remember that book clearly. I had no idea when I started this long novel 1600 plus pages, March 17, 2019, that Blondie my dog would die a week later, March 24, 2019. I don't know if I would have read it in a shorter period of time but I know at times I was distracted. I was able though to start reading again and to me reading in a time of grief is a comfort and a distraction. Now onto my thoughts of this 7 volume book which was in epistolary form, I truly enjoy this style of writing and in my opinion Richardson is the master.
Years ago I read his "Clarissa Harlowe" & both his "Pamela" novels which are also in letter form. " Clarissa Harlowe" is one of my ultimate favorites and I loved "Pamela" too! I enjoyed and loved " The History of Sir Charles Grandison" but it is deemed a favorite but "Clarrisa" still is the book!💖
These books are quite long and I am sure not for all especially modern readers who want less words and just action who would say this book could be done in 1/3 of the pages. I loved every letter and every volume but I love older wordy books which bring my mind to a higher level and not into the vapors of moral decay. I want good to be the winner and evil not to be rewarded. You get that in Richardson's novels. The rake and free liver don't find happy endings. Piety is espoused and lessons learned are there especially for younger readers to see and learn but I am sure young people of today would probably pass. Reading is a personal experience and we all have our own taste which makes this an interesting world.
This being published in 1753, England, you have a feeling for life of the times and it's limited choices for females then, yet a modern female/male can take this book and see it's virtues in a life devoted to family, others, God, doing good acts of kindness and seeing how life not in that direction, a life that brings less joy and happiness. The discussion of "old maids" was interesting and of marriage based on love by appearance and not the inner soul of a person, how a marriage just on the the former will not last the test of time without the goodness of the mind. In his other novels the male lead was not as virtuous as the female heroines, so Richardson showed us his male version in this story. I highlighted several interesting quotes that explain the reasoning for Richardson writing this novel and some interesting facts.
From Delphi edition- There were some errors which you might find in the quotes below.
"First published in February 1753, Richardson’s last epistolary novel was a response to Henry Fielding’s The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling, which in turn had parodied the morals presented in Richardson’s previous novels. "
"When Thomas Killingbeck, a compositor, and Peter Bishop, a proof-reader, were working for Richardson in his print shop during 1753, Richardson discovered that printers in Dublin had copies of The History of Sir Charles Grandison and were already printing the novel before the English edition was to be published. Richardson suspected that Killingbeck and Bishop were involved with the pirating of the novel and immediately fired them."
I found it interesting how Sir Walter Scott and Jane Austen differed regarding this novel.
"Sir Walter Scott, who favoured the bildungsroman and open plots, wrote in his “Prefatory Memoir to Richardson” to The Novels of Samuel Richardson (1824): “In his two first novels, also, he shewed much attention to the plot; and though diffuse and prolix in narration, can never be said to be rambling or desultory. No characters are introduced, but for the purpose of advancing the plot; and there are but few of those digressive dialogues and dissertations with which Sir Charles Grandison abounds. The story keeps the direct road, though it moves slowly. But in his last work, the author is much more excursive. There is indeed little in the plot to require attention; the various events, which are successively narrated, being no otherwise connected together, than as they place the character of the hero in some new and peculiar point of view.” Although Scott is antipathetic towards Richardson’s final novel, not everyone was of the same opinion; Jane Austen was a devotee of the novel, which inspired many of juvenilia works. "
From editor of Richardson's time
"The first collection which he published, intituled PAMELA, exhibited the beauty and superiority of virtue in an innocent and unpolished mind, with the reward which often, even in this life, a protecting Providence bestows on goodness. A young woman of low degree, relating to her honest parents the severe trials she met with from a master who ought to have been the protector, not the assailer of her honour, shews the character of a libertine in its truly contemptible light. "
"Sir Charles Grandison, the example of a man acting uniformly well through a variety of trying scenes, because all his actions are regulated by one steady principle: a man of religion and virtue; of liveliness and spirit; accomplished and agreeable; happy in himself, and a bless — ing to others. "
"From what has been premised, it may be supposed, that the present collection is not published ultimately, nor even principally, any more than the other two, for the sake of entertainment only. A much nobler end is in view."
"THE Editor of the foregoing collection has the more readily undertaken to publish it, because he thinks Human Nature has often, of late, been shewn in a light too degrading; and he hopes from this Series of Letters it will be seen, that characters may be good, without being unnatural. "
At the time of the novel "duel fighting" is not discouraged and Richardson takes this up in his book.
"It has been objected by some persons, that a man less able by strength or skill to repel an affront, than Sir Charles appears to have been, could not with such honour have extricated himself out of difficulties on refusing a challenge. And this is true, meaning by honour the favourable opinion of the European world, from the time of its being over-run by Gothic barbarism, down to the present. But as that notion of honour is evidently an absurd and mischievous one, and yet multitudes are at a loss to get over it, the rejection and continuation of it by a person whom, it was visible, the consideration of his own safety did not influence, must surely be of no small weight. And when it is once allowed, that there are cases and circumstances in which these polite invitations to murder may consistently with honour be disregarded, a little attention will easily find others; vulgar notions will insensibly wear out; and more ground be gained by degrees, than could have been attempted with hope of success, at once; till at length all may come to stand on the firm footing of reason and religion."
"He will still have the satisfaction of reflecting, that the Laws of all nations are on his side, and only the usurped authority of a silly modern custom against him; that on many occasions, worthy men in all ages, have patiently suffered false disgrace for adhering to their duty; that the true bravery is to adhere to all duties under all disadvantages; and that refusing a duel is a duty to ourselves, our fellow-creatures, and our MAKER. "
"It has been said in b half of many modern fictitious pieces, in which authors have given success (and happiness, as it is called) to their heroes of vicious, if not of profligate, characters, that they have exhibited Human Nature as it is. Its corruption may, indeed, be exhibited in the faulty character; but need pictures of this be held out in books? Is not vice crowned with success, triumphant, and rewarded, and perhaps set off with wit and spirit, a dangerous representation? "
Religious differences of English Protestant and Italian Catholics in this era is quite interesting and which religion is the false one, shows the modern reader the vast differences at that time which though still different now the gulf was quite greater.
Excerpts from book, if you are interested in more quotes, I read a Delphi Collection of Samuel Richardson's works where notes and highlights are listed.
"Dare I, in this country, say he is a Heretic? Perhaps, we Catholics are looked upon as Heretics here. Idolaters I know we are said to be — I grant that I had like to have been an idolater once — But let that pass. I believe we Catholics think worse of you Protestants, and you Protestants think worse of us Catholics, than either deserve: It may be so. But, to me, you seem to be a strange people, for all that. "
"Pity, my dear grandmamma, that different nations of the world, tho’ of different persuasions, did not, more than they do, consider themselves as the creatures of one God, the Sovereign of a thousand worlds! "
There are times in this novel which where suspenseful and the drama of the characters had you wondering what turns it would take and though I was curious, I dare not peek at the ending. There are vast amount of characters but only a certain amount of letter writers and rarely do you hear of scenery but if the writer telling another the events and of their thoughts. There is no third person but the letters being the story together. There are rakes, a kidnapping, mental illness, abuse but you also have goodness, charity and understanding which rounds things out. A triangle of sorts which complicates the story. This is just the surface of all that this story offers. My feelings for characters change at times and it is interesting seeing my feelings for Charles Grandison at times I found him exasperating.
The story in short,
Harriet Bryon is on her way to visit relatives and finds her many suitors follow her and bring her more troubles. Charles Grandison has been away overseas studying and finding adventures along the way.
Loved this story!💖 I am quirky though and love these old reads! 💜
Years ago I read his "Clarissa Harlowe" & both his "Pamela" novels which are also in letter form. " Clarissa Harlowe" is one of my ultimate favorites and I loved "Pamela" too! I enjoyed and loved " The History of Sir Charles Grandison" but it is deemed a favorite but "Clarrisa" still is the book!💖
These books are quite long and I am sure not for all especially modern readers who want less words and just action who would say this book could be done in 1/3 of the pages. I loved every letter and every volume but I love older wordy books which bring my mind to a higher level and not into the vapors of moral decay. I want good to be the winner and evil not to be rewarded. You get that in Richardson's novels. The rake and free liver don't find happy endings. Piety is espoused and lessons learned are there especially for younger readers to see and learn but I am sure young people of today would probably pass. Reading is a personal experience and we all have our own taste which makes this an interesting world.
This being published in 1753, England, you have a feeling for life of the times and it's limited choices for females then, yet a modern female/male can take this book and see it's virtues in a life devoted to family, others, God, doing good acts of kindness and seeing how life not in that direction, a life that brings less joy and happiness. The discussion of "old maids" was interesting and of marriage based on love by appearance and not the inner soul of a person, how a marriage just on the the former will not last the test of time without the goodness of the mind. In his other novels the male lead was not as virtuous as the female heroines, so Richardson showed us his male version in this story. I highlighted several interesting quotes that explain the reasoning for Richardson writing this novel and some interesting facts.
From Delphi edition- There were some errors which you might find in the quotes below.
"First published in February 1753, Richardson’s last epistolary novel was a response to Henry Fielding’s The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling, which in turn had parodied the morals presented in Richardson’s previous novels. "
"When Thomas Killingbeck, a compositor, and Peter Bishop, a proof-reader, were working for Richardson in his print shop during 1753, Richardson discovered that printers in Dublin had copies of The History of Sir Charles Grandison and were already printing the novel before the English edition was to be published. Richardson suspected that Killingbeck and Bishop were involved with the pirating of the novel and immediately fired them."
I found it interesting how Sir Walter Scott and Jane Austen differed regarding this novel.
"Sir Walter Scott, who favoured the bildungsroman and open plots, wrote in his “Prefatory Memoir to Richardson” to The Novels of Samuel Richardson (1824): “In his two first novels, also, he shewed much attention to the plot; and though diffuse and prolix in narration, can never be said to be rambling or desultory. No characters are introduced, but for the purpose of advancing the plot; and there are but few of those digressive dialogues and dissertations with which Sir Charles Grandison abounds. The story keeps the direct road, though it moves slowly. But in his last work, the author is much more excursive. There is indeed little in the plot to require attention; the various events, which are successively narrated, being no otherwise connected together, than as they place the character of the hero in some new and peculiar point of view.” Although Scott is antipathetic towards Richardson’s final novel, not everyone was of the same opinion; Jane Austen was a devotee of the novel, which inspired many of juvenilia works. "
From editor of Richardson's time
"The first collection which he published, intituled PAMELA, exhibited the beauty and superiority of virtue in an innocent and unpolished mind, with the reward which often, even in this life, a protecting Providence bestows on goodness. A young woman of low degree, relating to her honest parents the severe trials she met with from a master who ought to have been the protector, not the assailer of her honour, shews the character of a libertine in its truly contemptible light. "
"Sir Charles Grandison, the example of a man acting uniformly well through a variety of trying scenes, because all his actions are regulated by one steady principle: a man of religion and virtue; of liveliness and spirit; accomplished and agreeable; happy in himself, and a bless — ing to others. "
"From what has been premised, it may be supposed, that the present collection is not published ultimately, nor even principally, any more than the other two, for the sake of entertainment only. A much nobler end is in view."
"THE Editor of the foregoing collection has the more readily undertaken to publish it, because he thinks Human Nature has often, of late, been shewn in a light too degrading; and he hopes from this Series of Letters it will be seen, that characters may be good, without being unnatural. "
At the time of the novel "duel fighting" is not discouraged and Richardson takes this up in his book.
"It has been objected by some persons, that a man less able by strength or skill to repel an affront, than Sir Charles appears to have been, could not with such honour have extricated himself out of difficulties on refusing a challenge. And this is true, meaning by honour the favourable opinion of the European world, from the time of its being over-run by Gothic barbarism, down to the present. But as that notion of honour is evidently an absurd and mischievous one, and yet multitudes are at a loss to get over it, the rejection and continuation of it by a person whom, it was visible, the consideration of his own safety did not influence, must surely be of no small weight. And when it is once allowed, that there are cases and circumstances in which these polite invitations to murder may consistently with honour be disregarded, a little attention will easily find others; vulgar notions will insensibly wear out; and more ground be gained by degrees, than could have been attempted with hope of success, at once; till at length all may come to stand on the firm footing of reason and religion."
"He will still have the satisfaction of reflecting, that the Laws of all nations are on his side, and only the usurped authority of a silly modern custom against him; that on many occasions, worthy men in all ages, have patiently suffered false disgrace for adhering to their duty; that the true bravery is to adhere to all duties under all disadvantages; and that refusing a duel is a duty to ourselves, our fellow-creatures, and our MAKER. "
"It has been said in b half of many modern fictitious pieces, in which authors have given success (and happiness, as it is called) to their heroes of vicious, if not of profligate, characters, that they have exhibited Human Nature as it is. Its corruption may, indeed, be exhibited in the faulty character; but need pictures of this be held out in books? Is not vice crowned with success, triumphant, and rewarded, and perhaps set off with wit and spirit, a dangerous representation? "
Religious differences of English Protestant and Italian Catholics in this era is quite interesting and which religion is the false one, shows the modern reader the vast differences at that time which though still different now the gulf was quite greater.
Excerpts from book, if you are interested in more quotes, I read a Delphi Collection of Samuel Richardson's works where notes and highlights are listed.
"Dare I, in this country, say he is a Heretic? Perhaps, we Catholics are looked upon as Heretics here. Idolaters I know we are said to be — I grant that I had like to have been an idolater once — But let that pass. I believe we Catholics think worse of you Protestants, and you Protestants think worse of us Catholics, than either deserve: It may be so. But, to me, you seem to be a strange people, for all that. "
"Pity, my dear grandmamma, that different nations of the world, tho’ of different persuasions, did not, more than they do, consider themselves as the creatures of one God, the Sovereign of a thousand worlds! "
There are times in this novel which where suspenseful and the drama of the characters had you wondering what turns it would take and though I was curious, I dare not peek at the ending. There are vast amount of characters but only a certain amount of letter writers and rarely do you hear of scenery but if the writer telling another the events and of their thoughts. There is no third person but the letters being the story together. There are rakes, a kidnapping, mental illness, abuse but you also have goodness, charity and understanding which rounds things out. A triangle of sorts which complicates the story. This is just the surface of all that this story offers. My feelings for characters change at times and it is interesting seeing my feelings for Charles Grandison at times I found him exasperating.
The story in short,
Harriet Bryon is on her way to visit relatives and finds her many suitors follow her and bring her more troubles. Charles Grandison has been away overseas studying and finding adventures along the way.
Loved this story!💖 I am quirky though and love these old reads! 💜
December 31, 2016
It was one of the longest books I've read, but I was still sad when it ended. Richardson set out to create an interesting idealized hero and I thought he did a pretty good job - it helps that he's seen through the eyes of a sympathetic heroine and there's lots and lots of complicated angsty barriers to the main romance. It's an epistolary novel (all letters) and I enjoyed the variety of the voices and the episodic slant to the plot. Kind of like TV, 1700s style. :)
December 31, 2007
This is often said to be the longest novel in the English language - but Samuel Richardson's prose style is so spellbinding that it doesn't seem like it. Having said that, I didn't love it as much as 'Clarissa', because there is rather too much time spent saying how wonderful the hero and heroine are, and the story jumps around more. All the same, I'm very glad to have read it.
February 19, 2014
This novel has both great strengths and weaknesses. The strengths are the well-written characters of Harriet Byron and Miss Grandison. Both are intelligent, witty women who are not afraid to hold their own in society. I noticed quite a few similarities in temper between Austen's Eliza Bennett and Harriet Byron ( not surprising as Austen was a big fan of this novel). Miss Grandison can be a bit over the top with her sarcasm at times, but is still an amusing character. The other side characters of Mr. and Mrs. Reeves, Lucy and Nancy Selby, and other members of Harriet's family are also well-done.
The character of Sir Charles Grandison has been criticized as being "too perfect." Yet I think this critique is not quite accurate. Richardson gives him faults, he just fails go introduce them into the plot which I think was a mistake. It would have been better if Richardson had shown Grandison's faults in the novel as Austen did with Mr. Darcy (a good, moral man with human failings), I think he would have both accomplished his goal of drawing an ideal, moral man and eliminated most of the criticism regarding this character.
The great weakness of this novel is its poor editing. The first 1400 pages or so are engaging and flow nicely. However, after this point the plot seems to move in circles at times. The negotiations between the Porreta family and Grandison become tedious and Clementina's madness becomes melodramatic instead of pitiful. The last portion of the novel is an exercise in perseverance even for an avid reader such as myself.
It is a shame that this novel was not edited better because the writing overall is good. The only major flaw in the writing has to do with some of the explanations of Grandison's transfer of love from Clementina to Harriet. It is a bit odd at times. Despite the horrible editing, I recommend this book for both its writing and its historical significance. It was the forerunner to Austen, Burney, Edgeworth, etc. and a great example of the early novel.
The character of Sir Charles Grandison has been criticized as being "too perfect." Yet I think this critique is not quite accurate. Richardson gives him faults, he just fails go introduce them into the plot which I think was a mistake. It would have been better if Richardson had shown Grandison's faults in the novel as Austen did with Mr. Darcy (a good, moral man with human failings), I think he would have both accomplished his goal of drawing an ideal, moral man and eliminated most of the criticism regarding this character.
The great weakness of this novel is its poor editing. The first 1400 pages or so are engaging and flow nicely. However, after this point the plot seems to move in circles at times. The negotiations between the Porreta family and Grandison become tedious and Clementina's madness becomes melodramatic instead of pitiful. The last portion of the novel is an exercise in perseverance even for an avid reader such as myself.
It is a shame that this novel was not edited better because the writing overall is good. The only major flaw in the writing has to do with some of the explanations of Grandison's transfer of love from Clementina to Harriet. It is a bit odd at times. Despite the horrible editing, I recommend this book for both its writing and its historical significance. It was the forerunner to Austen, Burney, Edgeworth, etc. and a great example of the early novel.
March 26, 2018
Oh my word. I give up, at 41%. I'd say I actually enjoyed the first 30%, but then I felt we were going nowhere and I wanted to slap all the main characters. How many times did we have to ask Miss Grandison if she favored whatshisname? How many times did I have to hear how every last person who encountered Harriet Byron thought she was the cat's meow and would make Sir Charles Grandison the best wife? How many times did we have to watch Sir Charles be so amazing that he converted even villains into admirers? Barf and snore.
If you didn't think Austen was an incredible writer, you would once you realized how superior she was to the writers she herself admired, Fielding excepted. Richardson should have been poked with a sharp pin for every time he repeated himself or went over 400 pages. He would've been a far better writer for it.
If you didn't think Austen was an incredible writer, you would once you realized how superior she was to the writers she herself admired, Fielding excepted. Richardson should have been poked with a sharp pin for every time he repeated himself or went over 400 pages. He would've been a far better writer for it.
June 24, 2014
Come talk to me when you've finished Clarissa. Seriously. There's no point even trying this unless you've survived that. Few have. Many are called. Most hang up.
January 19, 2019
This book is not for the faint of heart. It's extremely long, often tedious and repetitive, and promotes some pretty sexist attitudes about women (that last is not surprising for a book written in the 18th century, but it's still obnoxious). I gave it a try because it was apparently pretty popular in Jane Austen's household.
On the positive side, Sir Charles Grandison is a lot more readable than Pamela or The Mysteries of Udolpho (faint praise). The story is at least somewhat involving, and it's an interesting look at life and attitudes among the leisure class in 18th-century England.
What struck me most - though I don't think this was the intention of the author - was the intense family and social pressure applied to women in various ways, and the elaborate lengths they had to go to if they wanted to have any control over their own lives.
For me the recurring theme of the book was the delicate, hazardous dance women had to do if they wanted to maintain some sliver of personal autonomy. They performed exhausting contortions in order to deflect the ludicrous expectations and criticisms of their community. Whenever they attempted to assert some control over their own lives, they had to do so with plausible deniability so as to avoid being subjected to intense social pressure and condemnation. If apologizing, sobbing, groveling and flattering didn't work, they escalated to fainting or fits of madness. These were apparently necessary strategies for women to resist control without being punished for having wills of their own.
It's amazing to me that Richardson managed to portray all that while still earnestly promoting the idea that women were naturally inferior to men, and belonged in the domestic sphere under the protection of husbands. All the evidences he gives of their "weakness" are clearly the result of their severely restricted roles, not the reason for them.
On the positive side, Sir Charles Grandison is a lot more readable than Pamela or The Mysteries of Udolpho (faint praise). The story is at least somewhat involving, and it's an interesting look at life and attitudes among the leisure class in 18th-century England.
What struck me most - though I don't think this was the intention of the author - was the intense family and social pressure applied to women in various ways, and the elaborate lengths they had to go to if they wanted to have any control over their own lives.
For me the recurring theme of the book was the delicate, hazardous dance women had to do if they wanted to maintain some sliver of personal autonomy. They performed exhausting contortions in order to deflect the ludicrous expectations and criticisms of their community. Whenever they attempted to assert some control over their own lives, they had to do so with plausible deniability so as to avoid being subjected to intense social pressure and condemnation. If apologizing, sobbing, groveling and flattering didn't work, they escalated to fainting or fits of madness. These were apparently necessary strategies for women to resist control without being punished for having wills of their own.
It's amazing to me that Richardson managed to portray all that while still earnestly promoting the idea that women were naturally inferior to men, and belonged in the domestic sphere under the protection of husbands. All the evidences he gives of their "weakness" are clearly the result of their severely restricted roles, not the reason for them.
December 6, 2008
“… I can now, methinks (for the first time) a little account for those dark spirits who may be too much obliged; and who, despairing to be able ever to return the obligation, are ready to quarrel with the obliger.”
“Are we not taught, that this world is a state of trial, and of mortification? And is not calamity necessary to wean our vain hearts from it?”
“The happiness of human Life … is at best but comparative. The utmost we should hope for here, is such a situation, as, with a self-approving mind, will carry us best through this present scene of trial: Such a situation, as, all circumstances considered, is, upon the whole, most eligible for us, tho’ some of its circumstances may be disagreeable. Young people set out with false notions of happiness; gay, fairyland imaginations; and when these schemes prove unattainable, sit down in disappointment and dejection.”
“You look upon Love as a blind irresistable Deity, whose darts fly at random, and admit neither defence nor cure. Consider the matter, my dear, in a more reasonable light. The passions are intended for our servants, not our masters, and we have, within us, a power of controuling them, which it is the duty and the business of our lives to exert. You will allow this readily in the case of any passion that poets and romance-writers have not set off with their false colourings. To instance in anger; Will my Henrietta own, that she thinks it probable, anger should ever transport her beyond the bounds of duty?”
“Are we not taught, that this world is a state of trial, and of mortification? And is not calamity necessary to wean our vain hearts from it?”
“The happiness of human Life … is at best but comparative. The utmost we should hope for here, is such a situation, as, with a self-approving mind, will carry us best through this present scene of trial: Such a situation, as, all circumstances considered, is, upon the whole, most eligible for us, tho’ some of its circumstances may be disagreeable. Young people set out with false notions of happiness; gay, fairyland imaginations; and when these schemes prove unattainable, sit down in disappointment and dejection.”
“You look upon Love as a blind irresistable Deity, whose darts fly at random, and admit neither defence nor cure. Consider the matter, my dear, in a more reasonable light. The passions are intended for our servants, not our masters, and we have, within us, a power of controuling them, which it is the duty and the business of our lives to exert. You will allow this readily in the case of any passion that poets and romance-writers have not set off with their false colourings. To instance in anger; Will my Henrietta own, that she thinks it probable, anger should ever transport her beyond the bounds of duty?”
August 11, 2016
نوشته اند که این رمان ریچاردسن، عکس العملی ست به رمان "تام جونز" اثر "هنری فیلدینگ" ؛ "هاریت بایرون" که توسط عالیجناب "هارگریو پولکس فن" تعقیب می شود. چون هاریت به تقاضای عالیجناب، پاسخ منفی می دهد، عالیجناب او را می رباید تا مگر دختر را وادار به همخوابگی کند. اما پس از مدتی، هاریت توسط عالیجناب دیگری به نام "چارلز گراندیسن" نجات می یابد. برخلاف "پاملا" و "کلاریسا"، چارلز گراندیسن، قهرمان این رمان ریچاردسن، مردی ست با اخلاق و وجدان، عاری از شرارت و نیات پلیدی که "لاولیس" در کلاریسا و آقای "بی" در پاملا دارند.
* Tom Jones / Henry Fielding / Harriet Byron / Sir Hargrave Pollexfen / Sir Charles Grandison / Lovelace / Mr. B.
* Tom Jones / Henry Fielding / Harriet Byron / Sir Hargrave Pollexfen / Sir Charles Grandison / Lovelace / Mr. B.
May 29, 2020
I did enjoy this novel; it was fun to read. And, despite only reading volume 2 of 7, it was easy to pick up what had happened before and follow the characters' stories as they progressed. Epistolary is not my favourite writing style, so my concentration waned a little once I was over halfway through. But, considering this is known to be Jane Austen's favourite novel (apparently she knew all seven volumes off by heart!), how can you not read this?
October 30, 2014
I could not put it down.
October 8, 2023
This was quite the journey. It took me until well into the book to really get interested, and then it started dragging again with all the Clementina drama, and then I thought we were all done with that but it had to come back for a reprisal at the end to drag out everything even further. Grandison was pretty much a wet blanket in my opinion and honestly Olivia was the only one who had a moment where I maybe actually liked her... mainly for calling out Grandison on being an idiot for ditching Harriet to go back to crazy Clementina even though he was already rejected once and was literally under zero obligation to her anymore. "Unworthy Grandison! Unworthy I will call you; because you cannot merit the love of such a spotless heart. You who could leave her, and, under colour of honour, when there was no preengagement, and when the proud family had rejected you, prefer to such a fine young creature, a romantic enthusiast"
But unfortunately Olivia was a minor side character who was often just used as an example of a "bad woman" who was an example of how not to be (I think she was just more modern feeling, I guess ahead of her time)- same could be said for Charlotte, his sister... she was sometimes entertaining when she was not "behaving", but she also got on my nerves when she was being a pain apparently just for the heck of it. Miss Byron was also pretty boring, and I'm unclear why all the men in the world were obsessed with her.
I found myself thinking it felt like a drawn out and less interesting version of Pride and Prejudice before I even knew that Jane Austen I guess was known to have read this, so probably really was influenced by it in her own writing. All I can say is she was much better in making things actually interesting and not dragging things out for an eternity.
Regardless of how boring some parts got, and how insanely long this was... taking me legitimately like 6 months to slog my way through, it clearly left an impression on me, and these are only just some of my thoughts. I was highlighting and making notes in my kindle just to amuse myself along the way, which I rarely do. If I rated purely on how much of a slog this was I'd probably go lower but if I rated based on how invested I did get in (some parts of) the plot I'd go higher, so I decided to just meet in the middle with a 3 star rating.
But unfortunately Olivia was a minor side character who was often just used as an example of a "bad woman" who was an example of how not to be (I think she was just more modern feeling, I guess ahead of her time)- same could be said for Charlotte, his sister... she was sometimes entertaining when she was not "behaving", but she also got on my nerves when she was being a pain apparently just for the heck of it. Miss Byron was also pretty boring, and I'm unclear why all the men in the world were obsessed with her.
I found myself thinking it felt like a drawn out and less interesting version of Pride and Prejudice before I even knew that Jane Austen I guess was known to have read this, so probably really was influenced by it in her own writing. All I can say is she was much better in making things actually interesting and not dragging things out for an eternity.
Regardless of how boring some parts got, and how insanely long this was... taking me legitimately like 6 months to slog my way through, it clearly left an impression on me, and these are only just some of my thoughts. I was highlighting and making notes in my kindle just to amuse myself along the way, which I rarely do. If I rated purely on how much of a slog this was I'd probably go lower but if I rated based on how invested I did get in (some parts of) the plot I'd go higher, so I decided to just meet in the middle with a 3 star rating.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 6, 2024
The pages of the 1902 edition I bought from Oxfam were unopened so I had to slit them open with a letter opener. This was such a treat I didn’t mind when it become like a favourite TV series that’s two or three seasons too long. I was up to Vol V after two weeks but then I became bogged down in Bologna. Lady Clementina is the most irritating character not just in ‘The History of Sir Charles Grandison’ but in the history of the novel
The people in Sir Grandison Land are always drinking chocolate, travelling by chair, kneeling, fainting, kissing hands (or biting them in the case of Greville the creepy stalker), and retreating to their closets (a small back room not an actual cupboard (more’s the pity)). Most of all they’re crying 24/7 (having all the infant in their eye as Sir Rowland would say). There’s much ‘villainous cupidity��� going on. Letter copying and sharing is almost a cottage industry. Everyone is privy to everyone else’s letters. Harriet Byron seems to spend more time documenting her life than living it
What can be said about Sir Charles Grandison that hasn’t already been said over and over, over the course of 2500 pages? He’s ‘the best of husbands’, ‘the most dutiful of Sons’, ‘ the most affectionate of Brothers’, ‘the most faithful of Friends’, ‘the most modest, the most polite, the bravest, and noblest of men’, ‘a fine figure... in the bloom of youth’, ‘one of the handsomest men’ and ‘finest dancers in England’. Witty, amusing, learned, considerate, gallant, courteous, charitable, he also sings and fences very well! Eagleton called him ‘a Jesus Christ in knee-breeches’, which is the long and short of it
The people in Sir Grandison Land are always drinking chocolate, travelling by chair, kneeling, fainting, kissing hands (or biting them in the case of Greville the creepy stalker), and retreating to their closets (a small back room not an actual cupboard (more’s the pity)). Most of all they’re crying 24/7 (having all the infant in their eye as Sir Rowland would say). There’s much ‘villainous cupidity��� going on. Letter copying and sharing is almost a cottage industry. Everyone is privy to everyone else’s letters. Harriet Byron seems to spend more time documenting her life than living it
What can be said about Sir Charles Grandison that hasn’t already been said over and over, over the course of 2500 pages? He’s ‘the best of husbands’, ‘the most dutiful of Sons’, ‘ the most affectionate of Brothers’, ‘the most faithful of Friends’, ‘the most modest, the most polite, the bravest, and noblest of men’, ‘a fine figure... in the bloom of youth’, ‘one of the handsomest men’ and ‘finest dancers in England’. Witty, amusing, learned, considerate, gallant, courteous, charitable, he also sings and fences very well! Eagleton called him ‘a Jesus Christ in knee-breeches’, which is the long and short of it
August 19, 2023
It doesn't compel me the same way Clarissa did - and in fact I can't honestly recommend it to someone who hasn't already made it through Clarissa - but it's also infinitely better than Pamela, despite Richardson also taking the opportunity here to air some pretty-objectionable-by-modern-standards views of gender. It's really a novel I appreciate because, especially at the pace I read it, I felt like I was completely absorbed in this insanely detailed and specific depiction of middle- and upper-class eighteenth-century life for an incredibly long time. Also, Charlotte Grandison is pretty great.
March 15, 2024
I also read this one while I was on "vacation". I had read Pamela before this one so I thought I would read this one too. This novel follows the story of Harriet Byron who is pursued by Sir Hargraves Pollexfen. This is a very long read and it was somewhat of a slow book but I thoroughly enjoyed it.
July 3, 2025
Only read the first volume…that was enough
August 24, 2023
Certain similarities toClarissa, Or The History of a Young Lady with a much happier ending. And be prepared for a long haul.
January 21, 2020
Why had I never heard of this? Amazing story, philosophy, and form. It is historically considered one of the first English novels. The glimpse it offers into the culture of the time period makes it an anthropological treasure. The horrific realities of the time that are highlighted are rape, crime, vice, sexism, barbarity, violence, malice, deceit, murder, selfishness, greed, pride and envy. Though the novel’s feel is often rosy, tearful and old fashioned, it is only old fashioned in its honest judgment of those evils and it’s hopefulness that they can be combated by wisdom, bravery, and audacious goodness.
i-want-money
May 19, 2013Any chance of a Penguin existing for this brick? amazon's got a slip-cased hd @ 1704 pages, US$278.98 :: http://www.amazon.com/Charles-Grandis...
wikipedia :: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Hist...
FREE :: http://ebooks.adelaide.edu.au/r/richa...
It is perhaps worse than either Clarissa or Pamela. But this one apparently is a riposte to Tom Jones which itself was a parody of Clare and/or Pam.
wikipedia :: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Hist...
FREE :: http://ebooks.adelaide.edu.au/r/richa...
It is perhaps worse than either Clarissa or Pamela. But this one apparently is a riposte to Tom Jones which itself was a parody of Clare and/or Pam.
May 13, 2021
The first volume is great, and then it falls apart, because the morals fall apart.
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