The Book of Snobs

"The Book of Snobs" by William Makepeace Thackeray is a witty series of writings that examines snobbery in the 1800s through laughs and serious observations. The writings point out how obsessed people are with appearing important and focuses on people from all levels of society who crave acceptance by those they consider upper class. Thackeray boldly announces his plan is to deeply understand and demonstrate snobbery because it affects society. Early on, the author provides funny stories, like those of Colonel Snobley, who acts more important than he is to set up the idea that being a snob is widespread. Thackeray invites his readers to think about social classes and makes observations about the ridiculous lengths people will go to just to keep up appearances.