Wolf Hall: The Duke Of Norfolk's Role

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Post on Nov 11, 2024

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The Shifting Sands of Loyalty: The Duke of Norfolk in Hilary Mantel's "Wolf Hall"

Hilary Mantel's "Wolf Hall" trilogy, a captivating historical fiction saga, delves into the turbulent reign of Henry VIII, focusing on the rise of Thomas Cromwell, a shrewd and ambitious man who navigates the treacherous world of the Tudor court. Within this complex tapestry of power struggles and personal betrayals, the Duke of Norfolk, Thomas Howard, plays a crucial and often overlooked role.

The Duke, a seasoned and loyal servant of the Crown, initially embodies a sense of stability and tradition. He is a formidable figure, respected for his military prowess and unwavering loyalty to the King. However, Mantel subtly reveals the Duke's vulnerabilities, highlighting his deep-seated anxieties and his struggle to maintain his position amidst the shifting sands of royal favour.

A Constant Presence, a Shifting Power:

The Duke's relationship with Cromwell is a fascinating dynamic, marked by a complex mixture of respect, suspicion, and underlying rivalry. While initially seemingly united in their ambition for the King's favour, the Duke's staunch conservatism clashes with Cromwell's pragmatic approach and willingness to embrace change. This tension manifests in subtle ways throughout the novel, as the Duke's traditional worldview clashes with Cromwell's more modern and strategic approach to power.

The Duke's position as the King's close advisor, his staunch Catholicism, and his deep-rooted family connections to the powerful Howard dynasty make him a key player in the drama unfolding around Henry's pursuit of Anne Boleyn. Mantel masterfully highlights the Duke's internal conflict, his loyalty to the King tested by his deep-seated religious beliefs and his familial ties to Anne's enemies.

The Shadows of Doubt:

As Cromwell rises in power, the Duke's anxiety grows. He sees Cromwell as a potential threat, a clever and ambitious man who could easily eclipse his own influence. This suspicion is further fuelled by Cromwell's increasing control over the King's ear and his ruthless efficiency in dealing with those who oppose him.

The Duke's fear that he might become a pawn in Cromwell's grand scheme fuels his mistrust and paranoia, creating a subtle tension between them. Despite the Duke's initial support of Cromwell's rise, he increasingly finds himself wary of the man who has become so close to the King.

A Final Stand:

While not directly responsible for Cromwell's eventual downfall, the Duke's actions contribute to the complex web of events that ultimately lead to his demise. As the court becomes increasingly polarized, the Duke finds himself caught between his own personal beliefs and his desire to serve the King.

His ultimate fate, though tragic, underscores his role as a symbol of a dying order, unable to adapt to the changing tides of power. He represents the traditional world that Cromwell was dismantling, a world built on loyalty, tradition, and faith, and he ultimately falls victim to the machinations of a more modern and ruthless era.

In conclusion, the Duke of Norfolk's character in "Wolf Hall" is a compelling example of a complex and nuanced individual caught in the midst of a transformative period in English history. He serves as a powerful reminder that even the most seemingly steadfast individuals can be vulnerable to the machinations of power, and that loyalty can be a fickle and dangerous thing in a world of shifting alliances and ruthless ambition.