Evelyn Waugh
Biography
Evelyn Waugh (1903–1966) was an English novelist, biographer, and travel writer, widely regarded as one of the greatest prose stylists of the 20th century. Born in London, he was educated at Lancing College and Hertford College, Oxford. His early satirical novels—Decline and Fall (1928) and Vile Bodies (1930)—savagely lampooned the Bright Young Things of 1920s London with devastating wit. His later work, including Brideshead Revisited (1945) and the Sword of Honour trilogy, became more serious and Catholic in tone after his conversion to Roman Catholicism in 1930. Waugh’s prose is celebrated for its precision, economy, and mordant humor.
Common themes in Evelyn Waugh's work
English satire
A recurring theme throughout Evelyn Waugh's writing.
Bright Young Things
A recurring theme throughout Evelyn Waugh's writing.
Catholic fiction
A recurring theme throughout Evelyn Waugh's writing.
Social comedy
A recurring theme throughout Evelyn Waugh's writing.
Books
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Why Evelyn Waugh is still read today
Waugh’s satirical novels remain among the funniest and most stylistically brilliant in English. Brideshead Revisited has a huge modern following. His early comedies are masterclasses in wit and social satire.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Evelyn Waugh?
Evelyn Waugh (1903–1966) was an English novelist celebrated for satirical masterpieces like Decline and Fall and Vile Bodies, and the more serious Brideshead Revisited.
What are his early novels about?
Decline and Fall and Vile Bodies savagely satirize 1920s London’s upper classes. Both are available free on TextStack.
Is Evelyn Waugh male or female?
Male. Evelyn was a common male name in England. His first wife was also named Evelyn.
Where can I read Waugh free?
TextStack offers Waugh’s early novels to read free online.
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