Trollope’s Heir Trouble in Cousin Henry

초록

This essay undertakes a meticulous examination of the nuanced gender performance depicted in Anthony Trollope’s literary work, Cousin Henry (1879). The focal point of the narrative is the character Indefer Jones, a testator confronted with the weighty decision of designating an heir or heiress capable of perpetuating the enduring legacy of the English landed gentry. Rooted in a steadfast adherence to the tradition of primogeniture, Jones is compelled to select a male descendant to inherit the family estate. However, the plot unfolds with the revelation that Henry Jones, the presumed male heir, not only lacks moral integrity but also exhibits unmanly cowardice. Consequently, this essay delves into a comprehensive exploration of Henry’s moral unsuitability as the central figure in an inheritance narrative and as the designated heir tasked with upholding the esteemed Jones legacy. Furthermore, the analysis delves into Trollope’s deliberate reliance on a sophisticated comprehension of architectural norms and regulations pertinent to the Victorian country house. Intimately connected to Henry’s inadequacies is his deficient education and unfamiliarity with the requisites of overseeing a Victorian country estate. This extends beyond architectural considerations to encompass a lack of awareness regarding the nuanced protocols necessary for maintaining respectability in accordance with the specific temporal and locational norms of Victorian society. Consequently, Henry fails to command the respect of the estate’s denizens, including both servants and tenants.

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