Summary:
“The White Monkey” is the fourth novel in The Forsyte Chronicles by John Galsworthy and the first book in the second trilogy, A Modern Comedy. It shifts focus to a new generation of Forsytes, particularly Soames Forsyte’s daughter, Fleur Mont, and her husband, Michael Mont.
Set in post-World War I England, the novel explores the growing tensions between tradition and modernity. Fleur, restless in her marriage to the kind but dull Michael, longs for excitement. Meanwhile, Soames, now older, struggles to adapt to a world that is rapidly changing. The novel also touches on political and social issues, including the effects of war, economic uncertainty, and changing gender roles.
The title The White Monkey symbolizes the emptiness and dissatisfaction of the post-war generation. The novel paints a picture of a society in transition, where old values are being challenged, and personal happiness often comes at a cost.

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Question | Answer |
Book Name | The White Monkey |
Author | John Galsworthy |
Year Published | 1924 |
Book Type | Novel, Social Commentary |
Part of | A Modern Comedy (First book) |
Main Themes | Social Change, Marriage, Dissatisfaction, Modernity vs. Tradition |
Setting | Post-World War I England |
Main Characters | Fleur Mont, Michael Mont, Soames Forsyte, Wilfrid Desert |
Symbolism | The white monkey represents emptiness and dissatisfaction |
Literary Significance | Marks a shift in The Forsyte Chronicles from Victorian values to modernist themes |
Writing Style | Realistic, Psychological, Reflective |
Impact | Highlights the struggles of the younger Forsyte generation in a rapidly changing world |