Cornhill Magazine was first edited by William Thackeray. Thackeray was a prominent English novelist and satirist, best known for his novel Vanity Fair. He took on the role of editor for Cornhill Magazine when it was first established in 1860. Thackeray’s involvement with the magazine helped establish its reputation as a leading literary publication of its time.
Thackeray’s editorship of Cornhill Magazine was notable not only for his literary contributions but also for his editorial direction. He aimed to create a magazine that catered to a wide audience, with a mix of fiction, non-fiction, and illustrations. Thackeray’s editorial style was characterized by his wit, humor, and keen observations of society, which resonated with readers and contributed to the magazine’s success.
Under Thackeray’s guidance, Cornhill Magazine became known for publishing works by some of the most prominent writers of the Victorian era. The magazine featured serialized novels, short stories, poetry, and articles on a variety of topics. Thackeray himself contributed several serialized novels to the magazine, including “The Adventures of Philip” and “Lovell the Widower.”
Thackeray’s editorship of Cornhill Magazine lasted until his death in 1863. After his passing, the magazine went through a series of different editors, each leaving their own mark on its content and direction. Notable successors to Thackeray included Leslie Stephen, who served as editor from 1871 to 1881, and James Payn, who held the position from 1883 to 1896.
Throughout its long history, Cornhill Magazine remained a highly regarded publication in the literary world. It continued to attract renowned authors and showcased their work alongside emerging talents. The magazine’s reputation as a platform for quality literature and thought-provoking content helped it maintain a loyal readership.
In 1975, Cornhill Magazine ceased publication, marking the end of an era in magazine publishing. However, its legacy as one of the first and most influential literary magazines of its kind lives on. The magazine played a significant role in shaping Victorian literature and provided a platform for some of the era’s greatest literary talents.