Short Fiction
Anthony Trollope, the prolific Victorian novelist known for his sprawling sagas, also ventured into the more constrained world of short fiction. This collection brings together 41 of his 43 published short stories, ranging wildly in subject and tone. From bawdy burlesques and poignant tragedies to narratives inspired by the American Civil War or the intricacies of the gold standard, Trollope's shorter works often drew from his extensive travels as a postal service civil servant. Readers will find familiar themes of courtship, semi-autobiographical glimpses into the struggles of aspiring writers, and even a final return to his beloved Barsetshire.
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About Short Fiction
Chapter Summaries
- 1
- Rev. Augustus Horne and his companion visit the Castle of Antwerp, where Horne's trousers are mistakenly cut up by English tourists who believe them to be relics of General Chassé. The mishap leads to a humiliating evening where Horne must borrow his servant's mismatched shoes.
- 2
- Archibald Green visits Ireland for business and is invited to hunt with the O'Conor family. A mishap with his luggage forces him to borrow the butler's shoes for an evening party, leading to comic complications but ultimately romance with Fanny O'Conor.
- 3
- Aaron Dunn, an American engineer, boards with the Bell family in Saratoga Springs and falls in love with Susan Bell. Despite initial family objections and a temporary separation, their love endures and they become engaged.
Key Themes
- Cultural Misunderstanding
- Many stories feature English characters abroad who misinterpret local customs and people, leading to embarrassing or comic situations. This reflects Victorian attitudes toward foreign cultures and the insularity of English travelers.
- Class and Social Status
- The stories frequently examine class distinctions and social mobility, from Mrs. Thompson's concern about marrying a tradesman to the decline of the Jamaican planter class. Social position often determines romantic possibilities and life choices.
- Marriage and Courtship
- Romantic relationships and marriage negotiations form the central plot of most stories, exploring how love must navigate practical considerations like money, family approval, and social compatibility.
Characters
- Rev. Augustus Horne(protagonist)
- A well-fed, good-natured English clergyman who becomes the victim of an embarrassing mishap at the Castle of Antwerp. He is described as tall, corpulent, handsome, and generous, with a love of fine dress and comfort.
- George (narrator)(major)
- The unnamed narrator who accompanies Rev. Horne on his travels and witnesses the embarrassing events at Antwerp. He serves as both observer and helper in the crisis.
- Miss Grogram(antagonist)
- A sharp-featured, red-nosed English spinster with spectacles who leads a group of ladies in cutting up what they believe to be General Chassé's clothing. She is portrayed as aggressive and self-righteous.
- Larry(major)
- An Irish servant at the hotel who becomes an unwitting accomplice when the narrator borrows his shoes. He suffers greatly but remains loyal and doesn't betray his temporary master.
- Tom O'Conor(protagonist)
- An Irish country gentleman and master of foxhounds, father of the O'Conor family. He is hospitable, commanding, and represents traditional Irish gentry hospitality.
- Archibald Green(protagonist)
- An English gentleman visiting Ireland who becomes involved in a hunting accident that leads to a romantic entanglement. He is portrayed as somewhat awkward but well-meaning.
