Coningsby

<p><em>   Coningsby</em> is the first of Disraeli’s trilogy of political novels set against a background of real events in England following the enactment of the Whigs’ Reform Bill in 1832.</p><p>   The story follows the fortunes of Harry Coningsby – the orphaned grandson of the Marquis of Monmouth – from a boy at Eton to a young man of twenty-two. The luxurious life of the aristocracy with their balls and lavish entertainments is part of Coningsby’s heritage but he is a serious and thoughtful hero the accepted leader of the “New Generation” who unlike their more laissez-faire elders recognise the need for social and political change in a newly industrialised nation.</p><p>   Disenchanted with both Whigs and Tories Coningsby sets out to forge a new political force one that aims to reinvigorate Britain’s three great institutions – the monarchy the Church and the people. The author’s voice rings loud and clear here and also through his other central character Sidonia a wealthy and highly accomplished Jew who is both a man of the world and a man of no nation a position that gives him unique insights into human nature and politics. If Coningsby wants change advises Sidonia then he should revive the national spirit and aim to inspire: “To believe in the heroic makes heroes.” Bold as he is the path is a thorny one for Coningsby especially when he falls in love with a beautiful woman from the “new money” class.</p><p>   Disraeli’s solutions for inept political systems may belong to another era but his insightfully drawn characters – the self-serving fixer the bloated elitist the clever manipulator of events and public opinion – live on today and will ever endure. In that sense <em>Coningsby</em> is timeless.</p>