TL;DR
The Pillars of the Earth is a historical epic by Ken Follett that follows the construction of a Gothic cathedral in 12th-century England, weaving tales of ambition, love, and conflict.
What is The Pillars of the Earth about
The Pillars of the Earth, a monumental historical novel by Ken Follett, is set in medieval England and revolves around the construction of a grand Gothic cathedral in the fictional town of Kingsbridge. The narrative intertwines the lives of three main characters: Philip, a devout monk; Tom, a talented mason; and Lady Aliena, a noblewoman with a tragic past. It explores themes of ambition, power, and the struggle between good and evil, all set against a backdrop of political intrigue and social upheaval in the 12th century.
The Pillars of the Earth 6 Key Takeaways
Philip's Vision
Philip, the prior of Kingsbridge, is determined to build a magnificent cathedral, believing it will bring prosperity to the town. His unwavering faith and leadership drive the project forward despite numerous obstacles.
Tom the Builder
Tom, a skilled mason, becomes the architect of the cathedral. His personal struggles, including the loss of his wife and the challenges of raising his children, add depth to his character and his commitment to the project.
Lady Aliena's Revenge
Lady Aliena, wronged by a cruel nobleman, seeks vengeance and redemption. Her journey from a life of privilege to one of hardship and resilience is a central thread in the narrative.
Conflict and Power Struggles
The story is rife with conflicts between church and state, nobles and commoners, and within the church itself. These power struggles impact the cathedral's construction and the lives of the characters.
The Murder of Thomas Becket
Historical events like the murder of Thomas Becket are woven into the story, grounding the fictional narrative in real history and adding authenticity to the tale.
Completion of the Cathedral
The novel culminates in the completion of the cathedral, symbolizing the triumph of human spirit, faith, and perseverance over adversity.
The Pillars of the Earth Videos
The Pillars of The Earth by Ken Follett Book Review & Reaction
Top The Pillars of the Earth Quotes
- 'There are many things that I can say. Do you want me to lie to you?'
- 'The most expensive part of building is the mistakes.'
Who should read The Pillars of the Earth?
The Pillars of the Earth is ideal for readers who enjoy richly detailed historical fiction with complex characters and intricate plots. Fans of medieval history, architectural marvels, and epic sagas will find this book particularly rewarding.
The Pillars of the Earth Best Reviews
- Publisher's Weekly praised The Pillars of the Earth, stating, 'Follett risks all and comes out a clear winner,' lauding its ambitious scope and compelling human drama.
- Booklist hailed the novel as an 'extraordinary . . . monumental masterpiece,' noting its detailed depiction of medieval life and the depth of its character development.
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The Pillars of the Earth FAQs
What is The Pillars of the Earth about?
The Pillars of the Earth tells the story of Philip, prior of Kingsbridge, a devout and resourceful monk driven to build the greatest Gothic cathedral the world has known, along with Tom the mason and Lady Aliena, set against the backdrop of 12th-century England.
How many books are in The Pillars of the Earth series?
The Pillars of the Earth is the first book in Ken Follett's Kingsbridge Series. There are three sequels and a prequel, each set in Kingsbridge during different centuries, published from 2007 to 2023.
Is Pillars of the Earth based on a true story?
Although The Pillars of the Earth is a work of fiction, it includes real-life characters and historical events, such as King Stephen's battle of Lincoln and the murder of Thomas Becket, to add historical authenticity to the narrative.