"A History of Pendennis, Volume 1: His Fortunes and Misfortunes, His Friends and His Greatest Enemy" is a novel by the English author William Thackeray, first published in 1848. In this book, the reader learns the story of the growth and upbringing of Arthur Pendennis - a young man with ambitions and dreams of success in the world of London society of the 19th century. The author carefully lays out the main character's path, revealing his talents, shortcomings, friendships and betrayals. In this first part, important events take place that determine the further development of the main character. Thackeray skillfully reveals the inner world and experiences of Pendennis, guided by the classic traditions of English romanticism. This book impresses with its mastery of style and the depth of psychological portraits of the characters."