Book Review

[kenjari]

Wolf Hall
by Hilary Mantel

This excellent novel about Thomas Cromwell from his early life through his rise to power was a book I truly savored. Rich and detailed, paints a portrait of a complex, intelligent, ambitious man who, despite being neither noble, nor a churchman, nor a scholar, is able to rise to the highest positions of power in Henry VIII's government and thus influence and set in motion events both great and small. Mantel's deft touch allows the reader to clearly see Cromwell in both his political and his personal roles, engaging in tricky political machinations, and shepherding his household. He is revealed to be capable of tricks and manipulations, willing to be rough and ruthless, but also capable of great compassion and mercy even to those set against him as well as possessing true affection and tenderness for his friends and family. She also gives an interesting perspective on Henry and Anne Boleyn, looking at the story from the view of the people doing the governmental and other work of England instead of from with the pageantry and glitter of the court.
The thing I most enjoyed, though, was the way Mantel succeeded in bringing Cromwell and other historical figures as well as the events they were involved in into a more personal and immediate focus. The novel centers around the interactions and personalities of individuals, breaking down major historical events into a progression of smaller encounters and efforts. She brings long past events right up close and keeps the reader involved and fascinated at every turn.

Comments

[foldedfish.livejournal.com]

I think my opinions on Thomas Cromwell are no secret (http://www.platypusrex.org/lyrics/crows.shtml). :)

[kenjari.livejournal.com]

I think the fact that the book closes before the dissolution - Cromwell is only starting to consider it by the last couple of chapters - helps a lot with the more sympathetic portrayal.