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Wolf Hall

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2009

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Book Brief

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Hilary Mantel

Wolf Hall

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2009
Book Details
Pages

604

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

England • 1520s

Publication Year

2009

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Wolf Hall, the first in Hilary Mantel’s historical trilogy, follows Thomas Cromwell's rise in King Henry VIII’s court during the 1520s, starting from his escape from an abusive father to becoming a key advisor to the king. The plot centers on Cromwell’s efforts to secure the king’s desired annulment from Katherine of Aragon to marry Anne Boleyn, navigating complex political and religious landscapes, all while managing his personal losses and conflicts with significant figures like Thomas More and the Duke of Norfolk. Descriptions of domestic violence and the execution of individuals deemed traitors are present in the book.

Informative

Mysterious

Dark

Contemplative

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.1

237,231 ratings

71%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel is praised for its rich character development and intricate portrayal of Thomas Cromwell. Critics commend Mantel's ability to bring the 16th century to life with vivid detail and engaging prose. However, some find the narrative's dense historical context and complex structure challenging. Overall, it is a compelling read for fans of historical fiction.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Wolf Hall?

A reader who enjoys meticulously researched historical fiction, complex character studies, and political intrigue will relish Hilary Mantel’s Wolf Hall. Fans of The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory or I, Claudius by Robert Graves will appreciate its immersive narrative and rich historical detail.

4.1

237,231 ratings

71%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

Character List

Thomas Cromwell

A self-made man rising from humble beginnings to become a significant figure in Henry VIII’s court, known for his legal acumen and multilingual abilities, as well as his involvement in political and religious reform.

A powerful church leader and political figure who serves as King Henry VIII’s trusted advisor and Thomas Cromwell’s mentor before experiencing a dramatic fall from grace.

Henry VIII’s Lord Chancellor and an accomplished author, known for his opposition to Protestant reforms and his rivalrous relationship with Thomas Cromwell.

The King of England, depicted as a complex character dealing with political and personal challenges, notably his quest for a male heir and his tangled relationships at court.

The ambitious and controversial second wife of Henry VIII, niece of the Duke of Norfolk, whose relationship with the king plays a pivotal role in the court's political dynamics.

The first wife of Henry VIII, deeply committed to her marriage and her daughter’s legitimacy, caught in the tensions surrounding Henry’s annulment quest.

The daughter of Henry VIII and Katherine of Aragon, who suffers from health issues and is sent into exile due to her refusal to recognize Anne Boleyn as queen.

Anne Boleyn’s sister and former mistress of King Henry VIII, navigating a complicated position at court amid family rivalries and social challenges.

A lady-in-waiting known for her mild demeanor, who catches Thomas Cromwell’s interest despite managing scandals involving her family.

A seasoned and influential noble, uncle to Anne Boleyn, whose political ambitions and convictions shape his actions at Henry’s court.

A clergyman and reformer who becomes Archbishop of Canterbury, closely aligned with Thomas Cromwell in advancing the English Reformation.

A poet and diplomat at Henry VIII’s court, connected to Anne Boleyn, struggling with his feelings for her amidst court intrigues.

The acknowledged illegitimate son of Henry VIII, young and unconsummated in his marriage, symbolizing the king’s complex lineage.

A nobleman with past ties to Anne Boleyn, whose strategic role near Scotland intersects with court politics and financial troubles.

A bishop and friend of Thomas Cromwell, involved in court and religious matters, particularly in reform efforts.

The head of the Seymour family, father to Jane Seymour, who endures a scandalously public family affair.

Thomas Cromwell’s chief clerk and trusted confidant, playing a vital role in Cromwell’s affairs, with a personal life marked by a secret marriage.

A nun and prophetess who stirs unrest with her visions concerning Henry’s marriage, facing interrogation for her controversial stand.

A diplomat and associate of Thomas Cromwell, whose loyalties are tested against the backdrop of political machinations.

Thomas Cromwell’s wife, a silk-worker who provides stability in his personal life until her untimely death.

The abusive father of Thomas Cromwell, whose actions contribute to Thomas’s decision to leave his hometown.

Thomas Cromwell’s bright daughter, whose life is marked by ambition and tragedy in youth, sharing her father's sharp wit.

The Holy Roman Emperor’s ambassador, engaging with the court in a studied and strategic manner, maintaining diplomatic relations amid court intrigues.

Thomas Cromwell’s mother-in-law, who aids in managing his household and helps navigate family dynamics.

Book Details
Pages

604

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

England • 1520s

Publication Year

2009

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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