"The Way of All Flesh" intricately weaves the generational saga of the Pontifex family, exploring themes of duty, rebellion, and personal growth. At its heart is Ernest Pontifex, a young man navigating the oppressive weight of familial expectations and societal norms. The narrative unfolds over several decades, capturing the transformation of a family and the individual struggles within it.

The Beginnings of George Pontifex

In middle age, Mr. and Mrs. Pontifex welcome their son, George, into the world. As George matures, his parents seize an opportunity when Mr. Pontifex’s brother-in-law offers to take George to London, apprenticing him in a printing business. George excels in his trade, inheriting the shop after his uncle's passing.

George's Family and Aspirations

George marries, and the couple soon welcomes five children: John, Theobald, Eliza, Maria, and Alethea. Tragically, Mrs. Pontifex passes away during Alethea's birth. Determined to shape promising futures for his children, George decides Theobald should enter the clergy, despite Theobald's lack of enthusiasm. Theobald, faced with disinheritance, complies with his father's wishes, waiting for an opportunity in the clergy to arise.

Theobald's Marriage to Christina

Meanwhile, the Allaby family, with three daughters ready for marriage, considers Theobald a suitable match. In a whimsical decision, the daughters play cards to determine who shall marry Theobald, with Christina emerging as the chosen bride. Unaware of this selection process, Theobald courts Christina and eventually secures her agreement for marriage. Despite George's disapproval of Christina's family background, Theobald is committed, and the couple settles in Battersby.

Raising the Next Generation

At Battersby, Theobald and Christina welcome their firstborn, Ernest, followed by Joseph and Charlotte. The strict upbringing they impose mirrors George's principles, with discipline often taking harsh forms. Upon George's death, his substantial inheritance is divided between Theobald and Ernest, reinforcing familial expectations and obligations.

Ernest's Education and Challenges

Ernest's childhood is marked by his parents' unwavering discipline, compelling them to send him to Roughborough for schooling under the severe Dr. Skinner. At Roughborough, Ernest's frail constitution and melancholic demeanor make him vulnerable. Fortunately, relief comes through his aunt Alethea, who chooses to support and nurture him, recognizing a potential beneficiary for her estate.

Alethea's Influence and Legacy

Alethea becomes a beacon of encouragement for Ernest, urging him to explore his interests, particularly his musical passion. Under her influence, Ernest's confidence grows, despite Theobald's disapproval. Upon her death, Alethea entrusts her estate to Mr. Overton for Ernest, marking a turning point in his life.

From Cambridge to Misfortune

Graduating from Roughborough leads Ernest to Cambridge to prepare for the clergy. Here, he gains a semblance of freedom, forming friendships and engaging in athletics. After ordination, Ernest's naivety leads him into financial and personal trouble, losing his inheritance to a deceitful friend and landing him in legal trouble. His father's harsh reaction further deepens his isolation.

Turning Point and Mr. Overton's Guidance

Following his release from imprisonment, Ernest finds himself at a crossroads. Unbeknownst to him, Mr. Overton holds the trust fund that Alethea left behind and begins to mentor him on his future. With the clergy no longer an option, Ernest seeks Overton's counsel to navigate this new chapter.

Marriage and Disillusionment

During his time at Roughborough, Ernest befriends Ellen, a maid employed by Christina. Their friendship blossoms into a relationship that results in marriage after a chance encounter in London. However, Ellen's addiction soon strains their marriage, and Ernest struggles with the responsibilities of fatherhood.

The Truth About Ellen

Ernest's life takes another turn when he learns from John, the former coachman, that Ellen was previously married and is the mother of his child. Armed with this knowledge, Mr. Overton facilitates a separation from Ellen, ensuring financial support for her while securing a better environment for the children.

Ernest's New Beginning and Literary Success

At twenty-eight, Ernest receives Alethea's trust fund, a windfall that promises a fresh start. He embarks on travels, gathering experiences for his literary pursuits. Returning to England, Ernest becomes a successful author, channeling his life experiences into his works, though he refrains from penning his own story. Instead, Mr. Overton, privy to the family's history, takes on the task of chronicling the Pontifex saga.