Wolf Hall

Hilary Mantel, “Wolf Hall” (Henry VIII Through The Eyes of Thomas Cromwell), Henry Holt & Co., 2009, 532 Pages

This is an historical novel written somewhat in the fashion that Michner used to employ in his writing. However, unlike Michners' books, this book disappointed and frustrated me as the author uses flashbacks and dream sequences which are not readily apparent, at least to me. The main character of the book, Thomas Cromwell—the great-great uncle of the infamous Oliver Cromwell—is an extremely interesting and capable character who is Henry’s advisor. Historians have long acknowledged Cromwell as the administrative genius who first transformed a medieval feudal state into a modern nation-state. To accomplish this transformation, Cromwell destroys the corrupt Catholic clergy and implements restrictions on the power of the entrenched aristocrats. The book covers the period of the early 1500’s ending with the 1535 execution of Thomas More and the wedding of Henry to Anne Boleyn. I have no idea why the title of the book is “Wolf Hall” which is the Seymour family estate. The home of a yet to be Henry-wife.

Of course, this book is probably a preface to a book yet to follow. After all, Thomas Cromwell also becomes headless five years after this book ends.