Teacher Guide

The Bonfire of the Vanities Lesson Plan

Introduction to The Bonfire of the Vanities

In 1987, Tom Wolfe, a renowned journalist, author, and American Studies scholar, released his debut novel (and eleventh overall published work), The Bonfire of the Vanities. Before this novel, Wolfe had primarily authored non-fiction pieces and essays centered on American life, including titles like The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test and The Right Stuff. While Bonfire of the Vanities ventured into the realm of fiction, it still carried with it the incisive social commentary that had been a hallmark of his earlier writings.

Initially serialized in Rolling Stone magazine, the book quickly gained immense popularity, spending two consecutive months at the top of the New York Times bestseller...

Join Now to View Premium Content

GradeSaver provides access to 2368 study guide PDFs and quizzes, 11018 literature essays, 2792 sample college application essays, 926 lesson plans, and ad-free surfing in this premium content, “Members Only” section of the site! Membership includes a 10% discount on all editing orders.

Join Now

Already a member? Log in