The Vicar of Bullhampton: Week 1 - Chapter 1-6

[Cindy, Moderator]

Michaela wrote: "What I noticed again - and it´s common in Victorian novels - is the description of people by their outer appearances which are obviously supposed to show their inner values...."

Glad you're able to join us, Michaela! I do see what you're talking about, especially in Dickens. Since I'm new to Trollope, I'm waiting to see how his style progresses. I love that Wilkie Collins doesn't always follow this pattern, and Frances, (more knowledgeable about Trollope), says he doesn't either, so that is a point in his favor, as far as I'm concerned!

[Frances]

I've come to love Trollope over the last few years, and am glad that there are still so many of his books to discover.

[Brian]

As Cindy has twice alluded to, there is the accusation, not just from Jacob Brattle, but from at least four other prominent men, including the Marquis of Trowbridge and Squire Harry Gilmore, that the cause of Sam Brattle's wayward life has been the special attention and friendship shown to him by the vicar. I'm struggling with that concept.

[Cindy, Moderator]

Brian wrote: "As Cindy has twice alluded to, there is the accusation, not just from Jacob Brattle, but from at least four other prominent men, including the Marquis of Trowbridge and Squire Harry Gilmore, that t..."

I'm just wondering if this is an automatic response on their part based on how society views the interaction among classes, or if they have knowledge of some aspect of the relationship that is a cause for their concern. Could the Vicar's advice to Sam about his work and his future be interpreted in a way the Vicar does not realize? As a teacher, this happens sometimes. You give the class instructions that you believe are straightforward, and some kids will give you something you never expected in return. You realize that while it is a far cry from what you were aiming for, it is a valid interpretation of your directions--just a perspective that you never even considered!

[Kerstin, Moderator]

Finally getting around to reading all the comments! I am way behind y'all, but I must say this is the first Trollope that is keeping my attention.

I think Mary has excellent chances to marry well, Gilmore or no. One thing that I have noticed with these Victorian novels, is that there were plenty of astute women around. She seems to know her own mind, and she will figure it out. I find it refreshing that she is taking her time and not rushing into anything. I understand Gilmore's frustration, but at the same time, if he truly cares for her he'll allow her the time.

Just like everyone else, I am eager to find out what Carry's story is. We've only got a teaser so far.

[Cindy, Moderator]

Kerstin wrote: "Finally getting around to reading all the comments! I am way behind y'all, but I must say this is the first Trollope that is keeping my attention. ..."

So glad you're joining us, Kerstin! Don't worry about lagging behind--I did the same thing with Villette. Life has a way of keeping us from following our schedules sometimes.