From 2nd November to 14th December 2026 join Trollope enthusiasts from across the world every second Monday to discuss Ralph The Heir as we read it together on Zoom.

Ralph the Heir is a novel about inheritance, self-indulgence, and integrity. It follows Ralph Newton, a spendthrift young man expecting to inherit his uncle’s estate. The novel contrasts him with his cousin, the illegitimate but honest Ralph, who earns the love and respect of others through decency and perseverance. A parallel plot follows Polly Neefit, daughter of a prosperous tradesman, whose hopes for a respectable marriage are clouded by class prejudice. Set partly during a contested parliamentary election, the novel blends political satire with moral exploration. Trollope critiques snobbery, questions the value of entitlement, and presents alternative models of merit and respectability.

Register free for the complete 2026 BIG READ

You only need to register once, you can then attend any of the 2026 BIG READ Zoom meetings without needing to register again. You can cancel your registration at any time.

30 November – Ralph The Heir, Chapters 30 – 44
14 December – Ralph The Heir, Chapters 45 – 58
28 December – Christmas Day at Kirkby Cottage

Click here to register to attend Ralph The Heir BIG READ Zoom meetings

We will send you an email with instructions on how to join and the password. Using Zoom is easy, just click on the link in the email and follow the instructions. Please note that you will not be able to join the meeting until 8.00pm (UK time) on the day.

Resources

• Plot summary and character listing for Ralph The Heir
• Download Ralph The Heir free of charge from Project Gutenberg
• Explore our Reading Guide for Ralph The Heir