Let's be honest, we've all met a prig. That person who follows every rule to the letter, looks down on anyone having a bit of fun, and seems to believe they have a direct line to what's 'proper.' Evelyn Sharp's novel is the origin story for that person.

The Story

We follow Christopher, a young man who genuinely wants to be good. He sets out with a strict moral code, determined to live a blameless life. The problem is, his idea of 'good' becomes a set of inflexible rules. He starts judging everyone—his friends, family, even potential romantic interests—against his own rigid standards. What begins as a desire for integrity slowly warps into smug self-satisfaction. He pushes people away, isolates himself, and becomes a parody of the virtuous man he wanted to be. The plot isn't about huge events; it's about the small, daily choices that harden a heart. It's the story of a man who, in trying to avoid sin, forgets how to be human.

Why You Should Read It

This book is a masterclass in character development. Sharp writes with a sharp, observant wit that never feels cruel. She makes you understand Christopher even as you're frustrated by him. You see the logic in his choices, which makes his transformation all the more tragic. It’s a scary mirror to hold up: have I ever been that rigid? Have I ever confused being 'right' with being kind? Written in the late Victorian era, it’s also a fascinating look at the social pressures of the time. The expectations around class, manners, and morality were a perfect breeding ground for priggishness, and Sharp nails it.

Final Verdict

Perfect for readers who love character-driven stories and sharp social observation. If you enjoy authors like Jane Austen for their wit and insight into human flaws, you'll find a lot to love here. It’s also a great pick for anyone interested in Victorian literature that steps outside the usual romantic plots. 'The Making of a Prig' is a quiet, intelligent, and surprisingly relatable novel about a very specific kind of downfall. It proves that sometimes, the most dangerous villain is the one who believes they're the hero.