The Warden (Anthony Trollope, 1855)

I keep running into references of Trollope being such a famous Victorian novelist, so I thought I would try one of his books. It didn't leave me rushing to try more, though I may do so at some point.

This book was the first of a set known as the "Baretshire" books - often revolving around the clergy. In this one, the application of Anglican church revenues is challenged by a do-gooder; the beneficiary of the revenue is conflicted; unexpected romance. Etc.

Don Quixote (Miguel de Cervantes, 1605)

2005 being the 400th anniversary of this famous book, I thought it was time to read it. So I did.

Basic plot is well known - the protagonist reads too many novels about chivalry and pretty much goes out of his mind; then pursues various adventures with Sancho Panza. Dulcinea, windmills, practical jokes, etc.

I pretty much achieved nothing other than reading the stories and enjoying them (Part 2 more than Part 1, though to be honest there were plenty of slow parts). When you read about the book, there is all sort of commentary explaining why it was ground-breaking. But this is hard for me to discern while reading.

The Nobel Institute supposedly voted for this as "The Greatest Book of All Time." Wow?

Cervantes fought at Lepanto, which is pretty neat.