Vol. 6, Issue 2, Part H (2024)

The research paper explores Hilary Mantel’s reimagining of Thomas Cromwell, focusing on her innovative approach to historical fiction through a feminist perspective. Mantel challenges conventional history and elevates marginalized voices with his account of Cromwell’s complex connections with women and his negotiation of power dynamics in a patriarchal culture. The paper examines how Mantel’s narrative techniques, including her rich characterization and attention to the inner lives of historically overlooked figures, contribute to a broader critique of gendered power structures. Through a feminist reinterpretation, Mantel not only reconstructs Cromwell’s legacy but also redefines the possibilities of historical fiction as a genre. Mantel has been lauded for her intricate and humanized depiction of Cromwell, she has also faced criticism for presenting him in an excessively favourable light. This paper explores Mantel’s influence on the evolution of historical fiction, focusing on four key areas: the captivating nature of her narrative style, her reimagining of Cromwell in contrast to previous portrayals, her distinctive literary techniques, and the placement of her work within the broader context of ‘women’s writing. The paper examines these aspects and argues that, despite adopting a masculine viewpoint, Mantel infuses her narratives with a subtle subtext that reflects feminine perspectives. The paper highlights how Mantel’s embodied portrayal of Cromwell challenges conventional boundaries of the genre, offering new dimensions to the role of historical fiction.