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Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel- Book Review



“Why are we so attached to the severities of the past? Why are we so proud of having endured our fathers and our mothers, the fireless days and the meatless days, the cold winters and the sharp tongues? It's not as if we had a choice.”


In Wolf Hall, we accompany Thomas Cromwell on his ascent to power within the Court of Henry VIII. Personally, I found this to be a challenging read, requiring a considerable amount of time to fully immerse myself in the narrative. Reading it slowly proved to be the most effective approach, allowing me to absorb the intricate details. The author refrains from spoon-feeding historical information, so I think that a bit of prior knowledge about the time period could enhance comprehension of the various conversations and events depicted.


Mantel's writing really transports readers to the tumultuous and historically significant era. While Henry VIII's multiple marriages and his break from the Catholic Church are well-known, I think Wolf Hall offers a more intricate exploration of these events, focusing on the internal mechanisms. Specifically, since the narrative places us in the shoes of Thomas Cromwell, it provides an immersive experience that feels as though we are inside his mind, witnessing historic events unfold from a front-row seat.


Cromwell is portrayed as a ruthless mastermind, and I appreciate the author's decision to present this facet of history through his perspective. The experience of delving into Cromwell's world was not only enjoyable but also highly educational, contributing significantly to my understanding of this intriguing period. I think this is a worthy Booker Prize winner.


I read this book as part of my Reading All The Booker Prize Winners  project.





TV SHOW TRAILER FOR WOLF HALL

 


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