Which author is known for their critique of Victorian society in "Vanity Fair"?

William Thackeray is the author known for his critique of Victorian society in "Vanity Fair." This novel, published in the early 19th century, is often celebrated for its satirical portrayal of the social landscape of the time. Thackeray uses the character of Becky Sharp, a cunning and manipulative woman, to explore themes of ambition, class disparity, and moral ambiguity. His incisive commentary on the superficial values and self-serving nature of society demonstrates a clear and unflinching criticism of the norms and pretensions prevalent during the Victorian era. The novel’s subtitle, "A Novel Without a Hero," underscores its intention to challenge the idealized notions of virtue and morality, showcasing characters driven by greed and social ambition instead.

The other authors listed, while noteworthy in their own right, focused on different themes and societal critiques relevant to their own contexts. For example, Harper Lee’s "To Kill a Mockingbird" critiques racial injustice in the American South, George Bernard Shaw examined social issues and class struggles through his plays, and Leo Tolstoy often dealt with moral dilemmas and existential questions within Russian society, rather than a direct critique of Victorian norms.