The Egoist: A Comedy in Narrative
1879
The Egoist: A Comedy in Narrative, published in 1879 by George Meredith, is a psychological novel that critiques the egotism and social conventions of the late 19th-century English aristocracy. The story follows Sir Willoughby Patterne, a wealthy and self-centered gentleman, as he navigates love and familial expectations, particularly his engagement to Constantia Durham. Notable for its sharp humor and exploration of human nature, the novel examines the conflict between egoism and genuine emotion, positioning comedy as a means to challenge societal norms and reveal the folly of human behavior.
