Trilby
What is Trilby about?
Trilby (1894) is George du Maurier's sensational novel that became the bestselling book of the 1890s. Set in the bohemian art world of Paris, it tells the story of Trilby O'Ferrall, a young Irish-born artist's model who cannot sing a note—until the sinister musician Svengali places her under his hypnotic power and transforms her into the greatest singer in Europe. But Trilby's talent exists only under Svengali's control, and when his power breaks, the consequences are devastating. The novel gave the English language the word "Svengali" and created a cultural phenomenon that spawned merchandise, songs, and multiple adaptations.
Main themes in Trilby
Svengali and Hypnosis
In Trilby, svengali and hypnosis provides a lens for understanding the story's core message.
Bohemian Paris
Bohemian Paris emerges as a defining element in Trilby, shaping character development.
Artistic Life
Artistic Life emerges as a defining element in Trilby, shaping character development.
Victorian Sensation Novel
Victorian Sensation Novel emerges as a defining element in Trilby, shaping character development.
Why Trilby is still relevant today
Trilby was the biggest bestseller of the 1890s and introduced the Svengali archetype into popular culture. Its portrait of bohemian Paris defined an era's imagination.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Trilby about?
A tone-deaf girl in bohemian Paris is hypnotized by the sinister Svengali into becoming the world's greatest singer.
Where does the word Svengali come from?
From this novel—Svengali became a common word for anyone who exercises excessive influence over another person.
Where can I read Trilby online?
You can read it free on TextStack.