'Pavane' by Keith Roberts is an alternate history novel set in a world where Queen Elizabeth I was assassinated and the Spanish Armada succeeded, leading to a society dominated by the Catholic Church. The book consists of interlinked short stories that provide snapshots of a feudal England in the 1960s under the Church's rule, where technological progress has been limited and the Inquisition still operates. The writing style is described as vivid, lyrical, and experimental, offering glimpses into a world where historical events took a different turn and exploring themes of religion, history, science, and violence.

Characters:

The characters are well-developed and multifaceted, each navigating the challenges imposed by an oppressive regime in their lives.

Writing/Prose:

The prose is rich and lyrical, filled with vivid imagery and a strong sense of place, effectively combining historical details with fantastical elements.

Plot/Storyline:

The novel presents an alternate history where the assassination of Elizabeth I creates a Catholic-dominated world, following generations of the Strange family through a stunted technological landscape.

Setting:

The novel is set in a richly detailed alternate England where Catholicism suppresses technological and social progress, creating a unique historical backdrop.

Pacing:

Pacing is measured, akin to the narrative style, allowing for thorough character and thematic exploration across the chapters.

The appointed morning came, and they buried Eli Strange. The coffin, black and purple drapes twitched aside, eased down into the grave; the white webbings slid through the hands of the bearers in nomi...

Notes:

Pavane is an alternate history novel set in a world where Queen Elizabeth I was assassinated in 1588.

The Catholic Church dominates this world, leading to limited technological advancement.

The novel is structured around six interconnected stories called 'measures' and includes a prologue and a coda.

The world depicted is reminiscent of feudal society, with steam-powered vehicles and semaphore communication.

Key themes include oppression by the Church and the potential for rebellion.

The book features a soundtrack to its narrative structure, echoing the musical form of a pavane dance.

The Lady Margaret and steam traction engines are important symbols throughout the narrative.

Roberts weaves in elements of folklore, with references to faeries or 'Old Ones.'

The novel offers a counterpoint to the idea of technological progress, suggesting it was systematically suppressed.

The coda of the novel suggests the existence of a cyclical history, where previous civilizations have faced similar struggles.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

The book contains themes and scenarios that may trigger readers, such as oppression, violence from the Inquisition, and elements of despair and grief.

Has Romance?

The book includes elements of romance, particularly in the story of Jesse Strange and his affection for Lady Margaret, but it is not the primary focus.

From The Publisher:

1588: Queen Elizabeth is felled by an assassin's bullet. Within the week, the Spanish Armada had set sail, and its victory changed the course of history.

1968: England is still dominated by the Church of Rome. There are no telephones, no television, no nuclear power. As Catholicism and the Inquisition tighten their grip, rebellion is growing.

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Pavane

Keith Roberts