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Cover of Dr. Jolliffe's Boys

Dr. Jolliffe's Boys

Written by Lewis Hough

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Conduct of lifeBoarding schoolsUpper classStudentsHonesty

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About this book

"Doctor Jolliffe's Boys" by Lewis Hough is a historical novel set in a boys' boarding school during the late 19th century. The story revolves around the experiences and relationships of the students, particularly focusing on the tensions and rivalries that arise amidst their youthful antics, including cricket games and clandestine adventures. The narrative is rich in detail and vividly captures the spirited lives of the boys as they navigate the challenges of adolescence. The opening portion of the novel introduces us to an exciting cricket match between Weston School and Hillsborough that sets the stage for rivalry among the boys. We meet the ambitious Saurin, who is determined to prove himself on the field, and Crawley, who is portrayed as a skilled and confident captain. Tensions escalate as Saurin grapples with feelings of jealousy and resentment towards Crawley, culminating in their first conflict that implies deeper animosities. This section effectively establishes character dynamics, the competitive atmosphere of school life, and foreshadows a confrontation that reflects the underlying themes of pride and ambition within the boarding school setting.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in Dr. Jolliffe's Boys, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • intermediate
  • competitive
  • spirited
  • nostalgic

Lewis Hough's "Dr. Jolliffe's Boys" is a historical novel delving into the spirited yet competitive world of a late 19th-century boys' boarding school. The narrative meticulously captures the challenges and triumphs of adolescence through the lens of school life, particularly highlighting the intense rivalries and evolving relationships among students. At its core, the story uses the backdrop of cricket matches and clandestine adventures to explore themes of ambition, jealousy, and the complex journey of self-discovery. It vividly portrays the period's educational environment, setting the stage for character development against a backdrop of youthful energy and underlying tensions.

“"The air fairly thrummed with expectation, each stroke of the bat a heartbeat for Weston's hopes."”

Key themes

Rivalry and Competition
This theme is central to the novel, explored through the intense sporting contests and the personal animosity between Saurin and Crawley. It delves into the psychological aspects of competition, including ambition, jealousy, and the drive to excel, and how these forces shape individual character and social dynamics within the school.
Adolescence and Coming-of-Age
The novel portrays the formative years of young boys in a structured boarding school environment, detailing their emotional, social, and moral development. It explores the challenges of navigating new relationships, asserting independence, and understanding one's place in the world.
Pride and Ambition
This theme examines the powerful motivators of pride and ambition, particularly as they manifest in young boys striving for excellence and recognition. It explores both the positive drive for achievement and the negative consequences of unchecked ego or envy.

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