Image source: Wikipedia
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Book Title: The Vicar of Wakefield
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Year Published: 1766
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Goodreads Rating: 3.46/5
- Availability: Free version available.
How to Read The Vicar of Wakefield PDF
Immerse yourself in the charming world of 18th-century England with "The Vicar of Wakefield" using PDF Reader Pro. Navigate through a tapestry of love, misfortune, and moral dilemmas as the vicar's family faces trials with resilience and wit.
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Our Review of The Vicar of Wakefield
"The Vicar of Wakefield" by Oliver Goldsmith is a classic that manages to remain surprisingly readable, even by today’s standards, despite being written in 1766. The novel introduces us to Dr. Primrose, a vicar living in idyllic domestic harmony, who is constantly overruled by his wife and daughters but takes it all in stride with a mild and tolerant demeanor. From the outset, his wry observations and understated humor make him a relatable figure, and his role as the head of a chaotic yet loving household lends warmth to the story.
Much of the novel’s charm lies in the vicar's understated wisdom and his willingness to let his family make their own mistakes. The story delves into the ups and downs of family life, with the vicar serving as a moral guide rather than an authoritarian figure. In this way, the novel predates many themes found in later works of domestic fiction, such as those by Jane Austen, who may have drawn inspiration from Goldsmith's depiction of family dynamics and romance.
The political undertones in "The Vicar of Wakefield" also add an intriguing layer to the narrative. Goldsmith subtly addresses the burgeoning political consciousness of the 18th century, reflected in the vicar's monarchist views. While he preaches loyalty to a distant tyrant rather than local, distributed oppression, the novel hints at the revolutionary ideas beginning to stir across Europe. This blend of personal and political elements enriches the story, giving readers more to ponder beyond the plot's surface.
Goldsmith weaves melodramatic twists into the narrative—villainous landlords, imprisonments, and house fires—that heighten the drama. These elements, while sometimes exaggerated, are used by the author as vehicles for deeper reflections on morality and human nature. Rather than feeling forced, the melodrama complements the vicar’s moral lessons, making the novel a blend of entertaining and thought-provoking.
One of the most compelling aspects of Goldsmith's writing is his sense of mortality. At just 38, the author writes with an awareness of life's fleeting nature, infusing the novel with a profound wisdom that speaks to the inevitability of hardship. Despite this, the novel remains optimistic, focusing on the resilience of family and the power of kindness in the face of adversity.
Fun fact: Goldsmith himself led a colorful life as a struggling writer on Grub Street, and his experience shines through in the novel's mix of biting social commentary and melodrama. His style influenced many writers who came after him, proving that even centuries later, "The Vicar of Wakefield" still holds relevance.
This novel is worth reading not only for its engaging narrative and memorable characters but for the timeless reflections on family, society, and human nature. It remains a classic that continues to resonate with readers, offering a snapshot of life in the 18th century that feels surprisingly modern.
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