Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett

Medieval Historical Novel

Title of Book: 

Author of Book: 

Historical accuracy 

Story and writing quality 

Would you use this to get someone interested in the MA? 

Why? 

it's the book that first got me interested in the MA over 20 years ago.

Would this be good for younger readers? 

Explain 

Lots of sex and violence.

My Review 

This is an epic novel covering the period from 1123 to 1174. Most of the story takes place in England in the time after the death of Henry I during the anarchy and civil war that resulted from the clash between Stephen and Matilda (or Maud as she's called in the book) for the right to ascend the throne.

The story centers around the building of a cathedral in the fictional town of Kingsbridge. It follows the battles between Stephen and Maud pretty accurately. It also portrays quite well the life in a medieval monastery as well as the life of the peasants and craftsmen working on the building of the church. The evolution of gothic architecture is portrayed as the church design changes during the course of its construction. More problems are encountered as a local baron raids the town several times and delays construction by months and even years.

Besides the very interesting portrayal of the times there's a mystery involving the father of one of the main characters (Jack). It has to do with the mysterious sinking of the "White Ship" carrying the only son of Henry I. It was the loss of the only male heir that results in the clash between Maud (Henry's daughter) and Stephen (a nephew).

The acendency of Henry II to the throne brings peace to England but not an end to the problems in building the cathedral. The final pages cover the assassination of Thomas Beckett and a resolution to the mystery of Jack's father.

Would you recommend this to a friend? 

Melissa Snell, Medieval History Guide, says: