The History of Henry Esmond · Concept
Honor and Sacrifice
The narrative repeatedly emphasizes acts of personal honor and sacrifice, such as Esmond's decision to conceal his true parentage and his willingness to give up his inheritance and military career for the Castlewood family.
The narrative repeatedly emphasizes acts of personal honor and sacrifice, such as Esmond's decision to conceal his true parentage and his willingness to give up his inheritance and military career for the Castlewood family.
The old Lord Castlewood's ruin and loss of his sons for the Stuart cause exemplify loyalty and sacrifice.
Lord Castlewood's death fighting for what he believes is the right cause, and Harry's pride in that, underscores the theme of honor in battle.
Henry defends Nancy Sievewright's honor against Doctor Tusher's insinuations, showing his sense of personal integrity.
Lord Mohun's apparent sacrifice in letting Lord Castlewood win back money, and the looming threat of a duel over honor.
Characters
Chapters
- Book I: The Early Youth of Henry Esmond, Up to the Time of His Leaving Trinity College, in Cambridge
- The Issue of the Plots—The Death of Thomas, Third Viscount of Castlewood; and the Imprisonment of His Viscountess
- VIII: After Good Fortune Comes Evil
- My Lord Leaves Us and His Evil Behind Him
- XIV: We Ride After Him to London
- I: I Am in Prison, and Visited, but Not Consoled There
- II: I Come to the End of My Captivity, but Not of My Trouble
- III: I Take the Queen's Pay in Quin's Regiment
