Kermis der IJdelheid

The novel's critique of social climbing feels quite pointed. I wonder how much of Thackeray’s personal perspective shaped its tone and messages.

Her manipulations are so bold, but I kept wondering if the novel is celebrating her cleverness or criticizing her morality. What do others think?

Characters like Becky and Amelia are so layered and morally ambiguous. I wonder if Thackeray was aiming to mirror real human nature or make a broader social commentary.