The Virginians: A Tale of the Last Century is a historical novel by William Makepeace Thackeray that serves as a sequel to his earlier work, Henry Esmond, while also having loose connections to Pendennis. Set in the 18th century, the story revolves around Henry Esmond's twin grandsons, George and Henry Warrington, who were born in Virginia. The narrative unfolds as Henry Warrington becomes romantically involved with an older woman, which prompts him to join the British army and participate in the 1759 capture of Quebec under the leadership of General Wolfe. However, when the American War of Independence breaks out, Henry aligns himself with the revolutionary cause, while his brother George, also a British officer, decides to resign from his commission rather than fight against his own family. Thackeray expertly combines personal relationships and historical events to explore themes of love, loyalty, and the complexities of individual choices during a time of significant political upheaval. The Virginians showcases Thackeray's skill in capturing the nuances of human emotions and the societal shifts brought about by historical events.
