The Tower of London in Novels - Summary
As you stand before the imposing stone walls of the Tower of London, it’s not just history that surrounds you; it’s the echoes of countless stories, both real and fictional, that have woven the tapestry of this iconic fortress. Today, join me on a literary journey through the ages as we explore the Tower’s profound influence on some of history’s greatest writers. From Shakespearean dramas to modern-day mysteries, the Tower’s presence in literature is a testament to its enduring allure.
Shakespeare’s Dark Tragedy: Richard III and the Princes in the Tower
Shakespeare’s Dark Tragedy: Richard III and the Princes in the Tower Let’s begin our literary exploration with William Shakespeare, the Bard himself. In Richard III, one of his most famous historical plays, the Tower of London takes centre stage. It’s here that the young Princes in the Tower, Edward V and Richard of Shrewsbury, mysteriously disappeared, fuelling rumours of treachery and murder. Shakespeare’s vivid portrayal of the Tower’s shadowy corridors and its role in the fate of these royal children has left an indelible mark on both history and literature.
Chaucer’s Tales: Imprisonment and Suffering
Geoffrey Chaucer, known as the Father of English Literature, also had his characters cross paths with the Tower. In “The Man of Law’s Tale” from The Canterbury Tales, the narrator describes a character’s unjust imprisonment in the Tower, highlighting the Tower’s historical reputation as a place of confinement and suffering.
Dickensian London: A Tale of Two Cities and the Tower
Moving forward in time to the 19th century, we encounter the Tower of London in the pages of Charles Dickens**’s** A Tale of Two Cities. Dickens beautifully captures the duality of London during the French Revolution with the memorable opening line: “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.” The Tower’s presence in this novel serves as a symbol of London’s complex history and its role in the unfolding drama of the novel.
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Hilary Mantel’s Tudor Dramas: Anne Boleyn and the Tower
Fast forward to contemporary literature, and we find the Tower of London in Hilary Mantel’s historical novels, Wolf Hall and Bring Up the Bodies. Set during Henry VIII’s reign, these novels explore the rise and fall of Anne Boleyn, one of the most famous prisoners of the Tower. Mantel’s meticulous research and vivid storytelling bring the Tower to life as the backdrop for political intrigue and the tragic fate of historical figures.
Ken Follett’s Thrilling Narrative: A Dangerous Fortune
In Ken Follett’s gripping novel A Dangerous Fortune, the Tower of London plays a pivotal role in the story’s climax. Set in the late 19th century, the novel’s suspenseful plot unfolds against the backdrop of Victorian London, and the Tower’s dark history adds depth to the narrative’s intrigue.
Philippa Gregory’s Tudor Tales: Anne Boleyn and More
Philippa Gregory, known for her historical fiction, has also used the Tower of London as a setting for her novels. In The Other Boleyn Girl and The White Princess, Gregory delves into the tumultuous lives of the Tudor women, including Anne Boleyn, who met her tragic end within the Tower’s walls. Gregory’s novels offer a compelling blend of history and fiction that keeps readers enthralled.
Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes and National Security
Even the world-famous detective Sherlock Holmes found himself entangled with the Tower of London. In the story “The Bruce-Partington Plans,” Holmes investigates a case involving national security and espionage, with the Tower of London playing a significant role in the unfolding mystery.
Jean Plaidy’s Historical Exploration: Cassandra, Princess of Troy
Jean Plaidy’s novel Cassandra, Princess of Troy takes readers on a historical journey, and the Tower of London makes an appearance as part of the narrative’s broader exploration of England’s past and its connection to legendary figures.
About the Author: Veena Chawla, Blue Badge Guide, and Retired University Lecturer
Nairobi Kenya born and a London childhood, Veena’s extensive travels throughout the UK and Europe have shaped her rich experiences. Alongside her teaching career in English Literature and English Language to students from all over the world, Veena has also worked as a London Blue Guide for over 20 years. Her interests are studying, History, Literature, and the Theatre. She loves visiting Museums and travelling.
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