The Caxtons: A Family Picture — Volume 02

"The Caxtons: A Family Picture — Volume 02" by Baron Edward Bulwer Lytton Lytton is a novel written during the Victorian era. It explores themes of education, family dynamics, and the aspirations of the protagonist, Pisistratus "Sisty" Caxton. The narrative delves into the experiences of a young man navigating the challenges of growing up, learning, and encountering various familial influences that shape his character. In this volume, we follow the journey of Pisistratus as he transitions from boyhood to adolescence, highlighting the impact of his uncle, the affable yet somewhat impractical Uncle Jack, on his development. Pisistratus experiences a mixture of mentorship and misadventure, particularly during his education at Dr. Herman's unconventional school. The story captures the tension between traditional scholarship and new educational methods, while also illustrating Pisistratus's aspirations to follow in his father's scholarly footsteps. As he prepares to attend university, the complexities of family expectations and personal ambition become increasingly apparent, setting the stage for his future endeavors in life and literature.