The Trollope Society’s Northwest Reading Group meets in person at the Royal Exchange Theatre in Manchester for lively and welcoming discussions. The group reads works by Anthony Trollope alongside novels and short fiction by other Victorian writers he knew and admired, including William Makepeace Thackeray and George Eliot. Together, these readings explore character, society, and the social and moral questions of the period.

The group is friendly and relaxed, and welcomes both long standing Trollope readers and those discovering his work for the first time. It offers a chance to deepen understanding, share ideas, and enjoy thoughtful conversation with others who share an interest in nineteenth century literature.

Lady Anna by Anthony Trollope

The Northwest Reading Group will be reading Lady Anna by Anthony Trollope, published in 1852. Lady Anna centres on a legal and moral dispute over legitimacy, inheritance, and the power of social class. Lady Anna Lovel, the daughter of a contested marriage between an aristocrat and a woman of lower rank, must choose between the expectations of her noble status and her loyalty to the man who has supported her throughout her hardship. Trollope combines courtroom drama with social commentary, exploring how law, custom, and conscience intersect.

Non-members of the Society are very welcome to come to a group. If you enjoy it, please ask afterwards for details of membership.

Price £5 to be collected on the day.