46 pages 1 hour read

Diary of a Nobody

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1892

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Summary and Study Guide

Overview

The Diary of a Nobody by brothers George Grossmith and Weedon Grossmith is a classic British humorous novel that chronicles the life and misadventures of Charles Pooter, a lower-middle-class clerk with social aspirations that often lead to comic misfortunes. First published in serial form from 1888 to 1889 in Punch magazine, the novel is a satirical look at middle-class pretensions and frustrations in late Victorian England, presented through Pooter’s diary entries. The entries are filled with his trivial domestic and social incidents, showcasing the authors’ sharp wit and keen observation of human behavior. The book appeared as a single volume in 1892 with illustrations by Weedon Grossmith and additional text. It has been adapted for both stage and film.

This study guide uses the Project Gutenberg e-book version of the book.

Plot Summary

Charles Pooter, a clerk in London’s financial district, declares his interest in writing a diary. He believes it will be interesting even though he isn’t a “Somebody.” The diary begins as Pooter states that he and his wife, Carrie, have recently moved to a new rented home in London with their servant, Sarah. His old friend, blurred text
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