"A Great Man: A Frolic" by Arnold Bennett is a comedic novel that satirizes society's obsession with ambition, wealth, and success. Arnold Bennett, a master of British literature, employs wit and satire to dissect the drama of business, relationships, and social commentary. The novel follows the exploits of a character deemed "A Great Man," whose ambition and pursuit of wealth lead to comedic mishaps and absurd situations. Bennett's keen observations of society's foibles and follies provide rich material for satire, as he humorously exposes the absurdities of the pursuit of success. Through the lens of comedy, Bennett delves into the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of unchecked ambition. The novel's witty dialogue and humorous situations add layers of depth to its social commentary, offering readers both entertainment and insight into the human condition. As a work of British literature, "A Great Man: A Frolic" stands as a testament to Bennett's skill in blending comedy with social critique. With its sharp wit and clever satire, the novel provides a delightful romp through the foibles of ambition and society's obsession with success.
Arnold Bennett was born on May 27, 1867, in Hanley, Staffordshire, which is now part of Stoke-on-Trent but was previously a separate municipality. He was the eldest of three boys and three daughters born to Enoch Bennett (1843-1902) and Sarah Ann, nee Longson (1840-1914). Enoch Bennett's early career was marked by ups and downs: following an unsuccessful attempt to start a pottery manufacturing and sales firm, he established himself as a draper and pawnbroker in 1866. Four years later, Enoch's father died, leaving him some money with which he apprenticed at a local legal business; in 1876, he became a solicitor. The Bennetts were strong Wesleyans who enjoyed music, culture, and socializing. Bennett attended the Wedgwood Institute in Burslem from 1877 to 1882, and then attended a grammar school in Newcastle-under-Lyme for one year. He was good at Latin and better at French; he had an inspirational headmaster who instilled in him a lifelong love of French literature and the French language. He excelled intellectually and passed Cambridge University exams, which may have led to an Oxbridge degree, but his father had other ideas. Bennett left school in 1883 at the age of 16 and began unpaid work at his father's business. He split his time between unpleasant occupations, such as rent collection, during the day and preparing for exams in the evening.
