Trilbyana

Svengali-Trilby-1895

Trilbyana refers to the cultural and literary phenomenon surrounding Trilby, a novel written by George du Maurier and first published in 1894. The novel had a significant impact on late 19th-century society, influencing fashion, music, and the arts, and introducing the world to one of fiction's most memorable characters, Svengali. This article explores the various aspects of Trilbyana, including its origins, impact on popular culture, and legacy.

Origins

Trilby was set in the 1850s in the Bohemian quarter of Paris and told the story of Trilby O'Ferrall, a young Irish woman who falls under the influence of Svengali, a manipulative musician and master hypnotist. The novel was serialized in Harper's Monthly before being published as a book, quickly becoming a bestseller.

Impact on Popular Culture

The success of Trilby led to a wide range of cultural phenomena collectively known as Trilbyana. These included:

Fashion

The novel popularized the Trilby hat, a soft felt hat with a narrow brim and indented crown. Originally worn by men, it became fashionable for both genders and remains a popular style today.

Music

The character of Svengali contributed to the mystique surrounding the idea of the hypnotic and controlling music teacher or manager, influencing the portrayal of similar characters in later works.

Theatre

Trilby was adapted into several stage plays and performances, further cementing its characters and themes in popular culture. The most notable adaptation was a play by Paul M. Potter that debuted in 1895, which was a huge success.

Language

The term "Svengali" has entered the English language to describe a person who, with evil intent, dominates, manipulates, or controls another, especially in a creative or artistic context.

Legacy

The legacy of Trilbyana is evident in its lasting impact on fashion, music, and literature. The novel and its phenomena have been studied in terms of their reflection of and influence on the social and cultural dynamics of the late 19th century. The character of Svengali, in particular, has become an archetype, and the novel's exploration of themes such as hypnotism, influence, and artistic genius continues to be relevant.

See Also

• Bohemianism
• Victorian literature
• Cultural impact of literature