Ginny Hofmann introduces chapters 1-12 of The Bertrams.

The Bertrams follows the fortunes of George Bertram, an idealistic young man educated at Oxford, and his friend Arthur Wilkinson, a modest and dutiful clergyman. As the two men pursue their futures, George through travel, writing, and conflict with his wealthy grandfather, and Arthur through parish life, they both become entangled with Caroline Waddington, a clever and thoughtful woman who must choose between them. The novel ranges widely in setting, including scenes in the Middle East, London, and rural England. Trollope reflects on themes of ambition, belief, inheritance, and romantic disappointment, making this one of his more philosophically rich novels.

The Bertrams was originally published as a three volume novel by  Chapman and Hall, 1859.

Resources

• Plot summary and character listing for The Bertrams (contains plot spoilers)
• Download The Bertrams free of charge from Project Gutenberg
• Explore our Reading Guide for The Bertrams