The circle of friends is very limited to just a couple of friends of Sebastian. Their friendship grows into a love affair. This is very subtle in the story but very evident.

That summer they have a very romantic stay at the huge mansion of Sebastians catholic family. When Charles meets the family of Sebastian the problems begin.

As Charles becomes friends with the members of the family (he even almost marries a sister) Sebastian turns towards drinking. Charles tries to help his friend but is less succesful as time passes by.

The story is told by Charles in a flashback when he comes back to Brideshead (the families country home) during the second worldwar. He has a series of memories of his youth and young manhood, his loves, life, and a journey of faith and anguish.