| The Prime Minister is the fifth novel in the Palliser series by Anthony Trollope.
When neither the Whigs nor the Tories are strong enough to form a government, Plantagenet Palliser, the Duke of Omnium, is called upon to form a coalition government. Palliser is at first unsure he is fit to be Prime Minister, but gradually becomes accustomed to it. To his frustration though, the coalition is too weak to actually accomplish much. Lady Glencora, his wife, hosts frequent magnificent parties in an attempt to garner support. She gets her husband into trouble when she gives a favorite, Ferdinand Lopez, the impression that the Duke will support his campaign for a seat in Parliament. Lopez persuades Emily Wharton to marry him against the wishes of her family, who prefer Arthur Fletcher. Fletcher is Lopez's political opponent. When it becomes apparent that Lopez has no chance of winning, he withdraws, but then insists the Duke pay his electioneering costs. Palliser is disdainful of this ungentlemanly behaviour, but gives in. When it becomes public knowledge and he is accused of trying to buy a seat for a supporter, he becomes very unhappy. Meanwhile, Lopez's high-risk business ambitions lead to his disgrace and financial ruin. When his last-ditch attempt to persuade wealthy Lizzie Eustace to run away with him to Guatemala is rejected, he commits suicide. Fletcher eventually coaxes his widow into marrying him. The coalition government, having served its purpose, is dissolved. The Duke and Duchess are both relieved and disappointed at the same time. | ||
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Plot & Themes Time/era of story - 1600-1899 Life of a profession: Is this an adult or child's book? - Adult or Young Adult Book Job/Profession/Status story Yes Main Character Gender - Male Profession/status: Age: - 40's-50's Ethnicity/Nationality Setting How much descriptions of surroundings? - 2 () Europe Yes European country: - England/UK Misc setting Writing Style Amount of dialog - roughly even amounts of descript and dialog |
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