Barchester Towers
Barchester Towers is a novel written by Anthony Trollope and first published in 1857. The book is the second of six in the Barchester series.
The novel focuses on politics and religion, and describes the conflicts between the Anglican church and the Catholic church in England in the 19th century.
The Bishop of Barchester has died and a battle ensues over who will take power. The power struggle involves the zealous reformer Dr. Proudie, along with his fearsome wife, and the scheming Obadiah Slope.
Through a series of conspiracies and backstabbing, the novel satirizes the antipathy in the Church of England at the time.
The book was well received by critics and the general public, and was one of Trollope's most popular books. It has been adapted for television, film and theater.
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Public domain (US)·No sign-up·DRM-free·Real text, not scans
Copyright note. Barchester Towers by Anthony Trollope is believed to be in the public domain in the United States only. It may still be copyrighted in other countries. If you are not in the United States, please check your local laws to ensure this eBook is in the public domain in your country before downloading Barchester Towers in PDF or EPUB.
- Pages
- 493
- Reading time
- 16 hours 44 minutes
- Pace
- Intermediate
- First published
- 1857
- Language
- English
- Downloads
- 2,245
169 years later, still timely
Why Read Barchester Towers in 2026?
Cathedrals, committees, and very sharp elbows. Trollope turns church appointments into a masterclass in soft power—how titles, favors, and “harmless” gossip move careers. If office politics feels modern, this makes it legible, funny, and oddly familiar.
Today's connection
In an age of boards, NGOs, and byzantine hiring, Barchester reads like a playbook for influence: who controls the meeting, who writes the memo, and who smiles while winning.
Faction choreography
Alliances, committees, and quiet whips.
Public opinion
Pamphlets then, press cycles now.
Ambition vs. duty
What integrity costs under scrutiny.
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About the author
Anthony Trollope
Institutions work and marriage drawn with patient candid warmth.
