# William Thackeray

## Biography

William Makepeace Thackeray was born in Calcutta, British India, on July 18, 1811. After his father's death, he was sent to England for his education, attending Charterhouse School and briefly Trinity College, Cambridge, though he left without a degree. He inherited a significant fortune but quickly lost it through speculation, forcing him to pursue a profession. Thackeray initially considered a career in art, studying in Paris, but ultimately turned to journalism to support his family after marrying Isabella Gethin Shawe in 1836. He became a prolific contributor to various periodicals, including Fraser's Magazine and Punch, often writing under pseudonyms. His wife's mental illness in 1840 left him a de facto widower, increasing his dedication to his writing career. Thackeray achieved widespread fame with his satirical novel *Vanity Fair* (1847–48), a panoramic portrayal of British society. He is also celebrated for *The History of Henry Esmond, Esq.* (1852). Thackeray’s works are noted for their realistic depictions of middle-class life and critiques of societal hypocrisy. He died on December 24, 1863, in London.

## Books

- [Vanity Fair](https://samolit.com/books/96141)