The Egoist: A Comedy in Narrative

Name: The Egoist: A Comedy in Narrative
Author: George Meredith

By George Meredith

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About This Book

A satirical comedy of manners follows a self-regarding man whose intense selfishness shapes courtships, friendships, and household life, prompting social collisions and moral reflection. The narrative uses ironic narration, pointed dialogue, and psychological observation to expose vanity, pretension, and self-deception, while a cast of secondary figures negotiates love, duty, and social expectation. Episodes range from near-farcical scenes to quieter scrutiny, and the work consistently employs comedy as a means to condense social critique and to suggest corrective forces—humiliation, mockery, and communal judgement—that challenge egotism and invite moral change.

About the Author

George Meredith

George Meredith was an English novelist and poet, known for his innovative narrative techniques and exploration of complex themes such as love, society, and morality. His works often reflect the tensions of Victorian society, blending realism with elements of romance and comedy. Among his notable contributions to literature is "Beauchamp's Career," a multi-volume novel that delves into the life of a young man navigating the challenges of ambition and personal relationships. Meredith also wrote extensively in poetry, with collections like "A Reading of Life, with Other Poems" and "Ballads and Poems of Tragic Life," showcasing his lyrical prowess and philosophical insights.