Paul Clifford by Edward Bulwer-Lytton, written in 1830, follows the story of the titular character, a young orphan who grows up in less-than-ideal circumstances at a public house called The Mug. Despite his challenging upbringing, Paul shows intellectual promise and seeks to rise above the criminal influences around him. The narrative explores themes of injustice in the judicial system of the time, showcasing Paul's journey from a struggling writer to a leader among highwaymen, all while addressing moral conundrums and societal critiques through a mix of romance and mystery.

The book is known for its ornate and extravagant prose style, often referred to as 'purple prose,' which captivates readers with its vivid descriptions and evocative storytelling. Bulwer-Lytton's narrative technique involves addressing the reader directly, creating a unique and engaging experience filled with humor and sarcasm. Through Paul's adventures and struggles, the novel delves into social commentary, moral dilemmas, and the complexities of human nature, making it a compelling read despite its challenging language and writing style.

Characters:

Characters exhibit a range of moral complexities and significant influence on the protagonist's development.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is marked by its elaborate, humorous, and sometimes overly complex language.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot centers on the journey of a young man navigating a world of crime and societal injustice.

Setting:

The setting represents a backdrop of societal contrasts and influences the characters' actions.

Pacing:

The pacing fluctuates, with slow sections due to elaborate prose and quicker transitions in character development.

Say, ye opprest by some fantastic woes, Some jarring nerve that baffles your repose, Who press the downy couch while slaves advance With timid eye to read the distant glance; Who with sad prayers the ...

Notes:

Paul Clifford was orphaned and raised by a rough but kind innkeeper, Mrs. Margery Lobkins.

Mrs. Lobkins attempts to educate Paul using the help of her more learned patrons.

Mr. Peter MacGrawler, a frequent patron of the inn, becomes Paul's tutor and later employer.

MacGrawler teaches Paul about literary critique, using unique terms like 'to slash' and 'to plaster'.

The novel explores themes of injustice in the judicial system through Paul’s criminal actions and experiences.

Paul rises to become a respected leader in the criminal world, despite originally aspiring for greatness in society.

The novel is written in an ornate, verbose style, often referred to as 'purple prose'.

'It was a dark and stormy night' is the famous opening line from the book, criticized for its melodramatic tone.

The book inspired the Bulwer-Lytton Fiction Contest, which challenges writers to create bad opening sentences.

Despite its flaws, the novel contains elements of intrigue, romance, and moral reflection on society's structure.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Potential content warnings may include themes of crime, violence, and social injustice that may be distressing to some readers.

Has Romance?

The book contains elements of romance, intertwined with the protagonist's journey.

From The Publisher:

Paul Clifford tells the story of a chivalrous highwayman in the time of the French Revolution. Brought up not knowing his origins, he falls in with a gang of highwaymen. While disguised as a gentleman for the purposes of a confidence trick, he meets and falls in love with Lucy Brandon. Clifford is arrested for a highway robbery and brought before her uncle, Judge Brandon, for trial, where it is unexpectedly revealed that Clifford is Brandon's son...

What can you read after
Paul Clifford?

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Paul Clifford

Edward Bulwer-Lytton