Evelyn Waugh’s 1945 novel, Brideshead Revisited, is the story of a young man’s spiritual and emotional journey. Set primarily in Oxford and London during the 1920s and 1930s, it is a timeless tale of romance and regret.
Charles Ryder is a young man studying Modern History at Oxford when he meets Sebastian Flyte. Sebastian is a wealthy aristocrat from Brideshead Castle, and he quickly forms a strong bond with Charles, who is charmed by the lofty lifestyle of his new friend. Sebastian introduces Charles to his family, the immensely wealthy and immensely Catholic Marquess of Marchmain and his four children. Charles is immediately smitten with Sebastian’s sister, Julia, whose beauty and allure is unparalleled.
Though Sebastian and Charles soon become the closest of friends, the presence of Sebastian’s tyrannical father provides a dark cloud that hovers over their happy, carefree days. As their college days come to an end, Charles’ feelings for Julia deepen and he is stricken with regret when Sebastian’s fragile health and erratic behavior drive the family away to their ancestral home, Brideshead Castle.
Charles is eventually called to military duty and is sent to Africa. While abroad, his feelings of longing and regret increase, and he slowly comes to terms with the strong emotions he feels for Julia. His time abroad gives him a new perspective on life, and he returns home with a clear devotion to his Catholicism. However, just as Charles begins to build his hopes and dreams around Julia, he discovers that the Marquess of Marchmain has arranged her engagement to another man.
Brideshead Revisited focuses on the interplay of emotion, faith, and class. Charles ultimately has to reconcile his forbidden love with his newfound faith. The novel tells the story of how Charles comes to terms with his desires and destiny, and how he finds freedom by embracing his faith.
Evelyn Waugh’s Brideshead Revisited is a timeless classic, exploring the complex emotions and faith of a young man’s struggle. It is a tale of love and regret, pleasure and pain, and a journey of self-discovery and faith that has captivated readers for generations.
