The History of Pendennis: His Fortunes and Misfortunes, His Friends and His Greatest Enemy

London: Bradbury & Evans, 1848 London: Bradbury & Evans, 1848-1850. In the original 24 serial parts (23 & 24 in one volume). First edition. Publisher's yellow paper wrappers with advertisements bound in. A good set with significant toning and wear to extremities, some foxing to text, many spines split, some with remnants of tape repairs. Scarce in the original parts. The History of Pendennis tells the story of the titular character, Arthur Pendennis, who seeks join the ranks of the London elite despite his less-than-wealthy upbringing. Typical of Thackeray's writing, this novel satirizes the trivialities of aristocratic life, leaving readers with a shrewd picture of society in 19th century England. Notably, The History of Pendennis is semiautobiographical, inspired by Thackeray's own experiences as a writer living in London. The protagonist of this story also appears in two of Thackeray's subsequent works, The Newcomes (1853-55) and The Adventures of Philip (1861-1862).. First Edition. Soft Cover. Good.