Step into the nostalgic world of Staircase in Surrey, where the hallowed halls of a fictional Oxford University college come alive with wit, drama, and the charm of mid-20th-century British academic life! Written by Michael Innes (the pseudonym of Scottish academic J.I.M. Stewart), this captivating series of contemporary novels follows playwright Duncan Pattullo as he navigates personal relationships, societal shifts, and the quirks of university culture. With its blend of literary finesse and gentle satire, Staircase in Surrey is a hidden gem for readers who love character-driven stories steeped in nostalgia.
Unlike Innes’ more famous detective novels featuring Inspector John Appleby, this series trades mystery for introspective storytelling, offering a heartfelt exploration of academic life from the 1940s to the 1970s. Ready to stroll the staircases of Oxford’s fictional Surrey college? Let’s dive in!
How Staircase in Surrey Began
J.I.M. Stewart, a distinguished Oxford professor, drew heavily on his own experiences at Christ Church, Oxford, to craft Staircase in Surrey. Writing as Michael Innes, he launched the series in 1974 with The Gaudy, inspired by his love for the university’s traditions and his keen eye for human foibles. Stewart’s dual career as a scholar and crime novelist gave him a unique perspective, blending academic rigor with playful storytelling. The series’ title refers to the student rooms along a staircase in the fictional Surrey college, a setting that anchors Duncan Pattullo’s journey through love, loss, and self-discovery.
The Heart of Staircase in Surrey
The series spans five novels, each a snapshot of Duncan Pattullo’s life. In The Gaudy (1974), Duncan, now a successful playwright, returns to his old college for a nostalgic alumni dinner, only to be swept into old friendships and new dilemmas. Young Pattullo (1975) flashes back to Duncan’s undergraduate days, capturing the antics and romances of 1940s Oxford with Innes’ signature wit. Memorial Service (1976) and The Madonna of the Astrolabe (1977) deepen Duncan’s story, exploring academic rivalries and personal growth, while Full Term (1978) wraps up with a scandal involving a nuclear physicist and Duncan’s thoughts of remarriage.
Themes of nostalgia, identity, and the clash between tradition and modernity run throughout. Innes paints Oxford as both a timeless haven and a microcosm of societal change, with richly drawn characters like the urbane Provost Edward Pococke and the Tolkien-esque J.B. Timbermill. The series’ style is literary yet accessible, peppered with allusions to Shakespeare, Tolkien, and Renaissance art, reflecting Stewart’s scholarly roots. Settings extend beyond Oxford to Scotland and Italy, adding layers of cultural richness to Duncan’s journey.
Why Staircase in Surrey Resonates
Staircase in Surrey stands out for its authentic portrayal of academic life, earning praise as a ‘roman fleuve’ of the university world. Fans cherish its nuanced characters and sharp social commentary, which capture the pomp and pettiness of Oxford’s dons with affection and humor. Though less known than Innes’ mysteries, the series has a devoted following among readers who relish its donnish charm and literary depth. Its exploration of personal and societal evolution remains relevant, offering a window into a bygone era of British intellectual life.
- Publication Years: 1974–1978
- Number of Books: 5
- Setting: Fictional Oxford University college, with scenes in Scotland and Italy
- Author: J.I.M. Stewart (as Michael Innes)
Grab The Gaudy and dive into Staircase in Surrey’s witty, nostalgic world! Whether you’re an Oxford enthusiast or a fan of character-driven tales, this series promises a delightful journey through the heart of academic life.