Thackeray's sprawling narrative, brought brilliantly to life by John Castle's narration, is a deliciously cynical look at human nature that still resonates today. Over my eight-day journey through this audiobook, I was consistently impressed by how modern the observations feel, even if the setting is firmly Regency era. 

Castle's narration deserves special praise for making the large cast of characters distinct and engaging. His interpretation of Becky Sharp is particularly masterful - you can hear the calculation and charm dripping from every word, making her one of the most fascinating antiheroes in classic literature. 

While the 30+ hour length might seem daunting, and there are certainly sections (particularly some of the Osborne family drama) that could have been trimmed, the rich character development and biting social commentary make it worth the investment. Castle's pacing and clear diction make even the densest passages accessible to modern listeners. 

The parallel journeys of Becky Sharp and Amelia Sedley serve as perfect counterpoints, showing different paths through society while questioning which approach is truly more moral. The novel's treatment of the Battle of Waterloo and its aftermath is particularly poignant, showing how even major historical events become merely another stage for human vanity and social climbing

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This isn't a cosy period piece - it's a sharp-toothed satire that strips away social pretensions to reveal the calculated maneuvering beneath. Castle's performance elevates the material and makes this classic remarkably accessible to modern audiences. Just don't expect a traditional heroine's journey or neat moral lessons - Thackeray is more interested in showing us the comedy of human folly, in all its frustrating glory.