Books matching: complex figure of ambition
5 result(s)
- #1
In "Promise at Dawn" by Romain Gary, the author pays a heartfelt tribute to his mother, a remarkable woman who shaped him into the man and artist he became. Despite facing challenges and hardships, Gary's mother envisioned a bright future for him in France and dedicated herself to ensuring his success. The memoir recounts their journey from poverty in Russia to eventual triumphs in France, highlighting the unwavering bond between mother and son and the influence of a mother's love on shaping one's destiny.
It is over. The beach at Big Sur is empty and cool and the gentle sand is kind to the fallen. The sea mist blurs all things except memories; between ocean and sky not a mast to be seen; on a rock befo... - #2
'Chaka' by Thomas Mofolo is a fictionalized account of the life of the Zulu hero, Chaka. The book takes the reader through the entire life of Chaka, from his birth and rise to power to his eventual decline. The writing style is described as mythic and folkloric, focusing on themes of ambition and power, with substantial liberties taken with historical accuracy to tell a compelling story. The novel also introduces invented characters like Chaka's love interest and a sorcerer, adding symbolic resonance to the narrative.
- #3
The White Queen by Philippa Gregory is a historical novel set during the time of the War of the Roses, focusing on the life of Elizabeth Woodville, who becomes Queen of England after marrying King Edward IV. The book delves into the political intrigue, battles, and betrayals of the time, while also exploring Elizabeth's personal struggles, ambitions, and the mystery surrounding the fate of her two sons. Philippa Gregory's writing style weaves together historical facts with fictional elements, creating a captivating narrative that brings to life the complexities of court life and the power struggles of the era.
My father is Sir Richard Woodville, Baron Rivers, an English nobleman, a landholder, and a supporter of the true Kings of England, the Lancastrian line. My mother descends from the Dukes of Burgundy a...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Plantagenet and Tudor Novels ) - #4
'Caesar's Women' in the series 'Masters of Rome' by Colleen McCullough focuses on the lives of the key historical figures in ancient Rome, primarily Julius Caesar, Pompey Magnus, and the political maneuverings within the Roman Republic. The plot delves into the intricate details of Roman history, covering events such as the Catiline Conspiracy, the Vettius Affair, and Caesar's enmity with Marcus Porcius Cato. The narrative weaves through domestic affairs, political schemes, and the influential roles played by Caesar's women including his mother, daughter, and mistress, Servilia.
The writing style of 'Caesar's Women' is characterized by extensive research, detailed recreation of ancient Roman culture, and a focus on the personal lives of the characters amidst the backdrop of political intrigue. The author, Colleen McCullough, presents a narrative that brings ancient Rome to life, portraying the complexities of Roman society, the ambitions of its prominent figures, and the everyday struggles and triumphs of the characters, all set against the historical events of the time.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Masters of Rome ) - #5
Famous Last Words by Timothy Findley is a historical novel that intricately weaves together figures like Ezra Pound, the Duke of Windsor, Wallace Simpson, Charles Lindbergh, and Sir Harry Oakes amidst a backdrop of WWII fascism and conspiracy. The novel delves into themes of ambition, love, loyalty, and the sinister interplay between egotism and fascism, all set within a web of international intrigue and historical events.
The plot of Famous Last Words unfolds as a blend of thriller, horror, and meditation on history and the human soul. The writing style captures the essence of corruption, faded glamour, and murder, while presenting a richly crafted plot that constantly surprises and astounds the reader.
All he took with him was his notebooks: some of them packed in his attaché case, others jammed and crammed into a cardboard valise whose corners and handles were riveted with brass. Time and panic had...