Meaning: The quote "Between Scott on the earlier side and Dickens and Thackeray on the other, there was an immense production of novels, illustrated by not a few names which should rank high in the second class, while some would promote more than one of them to the first" by George Saintsbury reflects on the prolific period of novel writing in the 19th century. During this time, there was a surge in the production of novels, with numerous authors contributing to the literary landscape. The quote acknowledges the significant impact of authors such as Sir Walter Scott, Charles Dickens, and William Makepeace Thackeray, while also recognizing the substantial body of work by other writers who may not have achieved the same level of recognition but nonetheless made valuable contributions to the genre.

The quote's reference to Sir Walter Scott, Charles Dickens, and William Makepeace Thackeray situates the period in the early to mid-19th century when these authors were influential figures in the literary world. Sir Walter Scott, a Scottish novelist, poet, and historian, is known for his historical novels such as "Ivanhoe," "Rob Roy," and "Waverley." His works contributed significantly to the development of the historical novel genre and had a lasting impact on literature.

Charles Dickens, a prominent English writer, created some of the most enduring characters and stories in English literature, including "Oliver Twist," "A Christmas Carol," "Great Expectations," and "David Copperfield." His novels often portrayed the social and economic issues of Victorian England, and his vivid characters and compelling narratives continue to resonate with readers worldwide.

William Makepeace Thackeray, another influential English novelist of the 19th century, is best known for his classic novel "Vanity Fair." Thackeray's satirical and incisive commentary on society, coupled with his skillful storytelling, cemented his reputation as a master of the novel form.

The quote also acknowledges the vast production of novels during this period, highlighting the contributions of numerous other writers whose works may not have achieved the same level of prominence as Scott, Dickens, and Thackeray. These authors, as noted in the quote, "should rank high in the second class," indicating that while they may not have attained the same level of fame as the aforementioned literary giants, their works were still significant and noteworthy.

Furthermore, the quote suggests that some of these lesser-known authors could be promoted to the "first class," indicating that their contributions to the genre were of such caliber that they could be considered alongside Scott, Dickens, and Thackeray. This recognition serves as a testament to the richness and diversity of the 19th-century novelistic landscape, with a multitude of voices and talents enriching the literary canon.

In conclusion, George Saintsbury's quote eloquently captures the flourishing literary period of the 19th century, characterized by the immense production of novels and the enduring influence of writers such as Scott, Dickens, and Thackeray. It also serves as a reminder of the wealth of talent and creativity that existed beyond the well-known literary figures, acknowledging the valuable contributions of a wide array of authors who enriched the literary landscape of their time.