Can You Forgive Her?, by Anthony Trollope. Part II

Can You Forgive Her?, by Anthony Trollope. Part II

From Great Audiobooks by Great Literature

May 4, 2026 · 2h 23m

About this episode

This episode discusses the complexities of relationships and political ambitions in Anthony Trollope's novel 'Can You Forgive Her?'.

“ Can You Forgive Her? ” is the first in a series of six Trollope novels dealing broadly with 19th Century English political scene. It introduces the reader to Plantagenet and Glencora Palliser, as they court, marry, and as Plantagenet sets out on his political career, which is carried on in the foreground or background throughout the series. Each novel has a focus on other particular characters, as well. In this one, it is the dilemma of Alice Vavasor, who is a young woman choosing between two suitors: one who has all the best qualities, but who prefers a retiring private life, and another, whose qualities are doubtful, but who is ambitious for public office. There is also a comic subplot involving a widowed aunt, who also must choose between two suitors: Mr. Cheeseacre, a dull but stable farmer, and Capt. Bellfield, a charming but somewhat erratic retired military man. This is the first of Trollope’s six “Palliser” novels. Other novels in the series are: 1 - Can You Forgive Her? 2 - Phineas Finn, the Irish Member 3 - The Eustace Diamonds 4 - Phineas Redux 5 - The Prime Minister 6 - The Duke’s Children Episode IX to XVI will be published on May 11th, 2026. Advertising Inquiries…

People in this episode

Host: Great Literature

Topics covered

  • 19th Century English politics
  • romantic dilemmas
  • character studies
  • Trollope's Palliser novels
  • social choices
  • comedy in literature

Keywords

  • Anthony Trollope
  • Can You Forgive Her?
  • Palliser novels
  • romantic choices
  • political career
  • 19th Century literature
  • character dilemmas

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Can You Forgive Her?, Phineas Finn, the Irish Member, The Eustace Diamonds, Phineas Redux, The Prime Minister, The Duke’s Children

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