The Forsyte Saga

(1922)

This novel is not one book, but six. "The Man of Property" begins in 1886, at the engagement party of young June Forsyte and a Bohemian architect, Philip Bosinney. Almost all the Forsytes (whom Galsworthy describes as a “species” of wealthy Englishman) are present. There are the mid-Victorian “old Forsytes”, the “younger Forsytes” who are Late-Victorian, who have inherited incomes and property. The predominant character, Soames Forsyte, is unhappily married to an enigmatic, beautiful woman, Irene, whose friendship with Bosinney, along with Soames’ possessiveness, becomes a tragic love affair. It begins a family feud throughout the Saga, ravaging the lives of many, including the next generation. This is much more than a love story, but a brilliant study of Victorian, Edwardian and post-war manners. Soames is the most constant character and one either loves or hates him for his beliefs and actions. This is also true of Irene, whose character is still being debated today.--Submitted by Gwynhwyfar

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