"Vanity Fair," by William Makepeace Thackeray, is a satirical novel that explores ambition, greed, and social climbing in early 19th-century England.

The story follows two contrasting women: Becky Sharp, a clever and manipulative orphan determined to rise in society, and Amelia Sedley, a kind but naive woman devoted to love and family. Through their intertwined lives, Thackeray exposes the hypocrisy and moral emptiness of a world obsessed with wealth and status. Becky uses charm and deceit to secure her place among the elite, while Amelia's loyalty and innocence often lead to disappointment.

The novel's subtitle, "A Novel Without a Hero," reflects Thackeray's cynical view of human nature-no character is entirely virtuous or admirable. Blending humor, irony, and realism, "Vanity Fair" remains a powerful critique of social ambition and the moral compromises people make in pursuit of success. It is presented here in its original and unabridged format.

William Makepeace Thackeray (1811-1863) was a prominent English novelist, essayist, and illustrator, celebrated for his keen social satire and realistic portrayal of 19th-century British life. Born in Calcutta, India, on July 18, 1811, Thackeray was sent to England after his father's death to be educated at Charterhouse School and later at Trinity College, Cambridge. Although he initially studied law, his passion for art and literature led him to pursue a career in writing and illustration. Thackeray began his literary journey contributing to magazines such as Fraser's Magazine and Punch, where his wit and humor quickly gained attention. His early works, including "Catherine" and "The Luck of Barry Lyndon", showcased his talent for satire and his disdain for pretension and moral hypocrisy. His masterpiece, "Vanity Fair," established him as one of the leading novelists of the Victorian era. The novel's central character, Becky Sharp, embodies ambition and cunning, serving as a vehicle for Thackeray's critique of social climbing and materialism. Other notable works include "Pendennis", "The History of Henry Esmond," and "The Newcomes," each exploring themes of morality, class, and human weakness. Though often overshadowed by Charles Dickens in popularity, his influence on English literature remains profound. Thackeray died on December 24, 1863, in London, leaving behind a legacy of sharp social commentary and enduring literary artistry.