The Life of Elizabeth I
by Alison Weir
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Book Summary Information
Author: Alison WeirEdition: Paperback
Audio: English (Unknown); English (Original Language); English (Published)
Published: 1999-10
ISBN: 0345425502
Number of pages: 560
Publisher: Ballantine Books
Book Reviews of The Life of Elizabeth I
Book Review: A Rather Narrow and Shallow Treatment
Summary: 3 Stars
This is the fourth Alison Weir novel that I've read and looking back, I've rated them all three stars. This is certainly not an endorsement, as the subject matter of these novels (mid-second millenium English history) is of great interest to me. Each of these works simply falls short in providing the kind of captivating reading experience that the subject matter offers.
The Life of Elizabeth I is a perfect example. Someone relying on this work for their sole exposure to Elizabeth I would think that virtually her entire reign was taken up with the pretense of marriagability. In that respect, this work is very narrow and does a great disservice, not only to Elizabethan accomplishments, but to the scope of 16th century life in general. In addition, analysis contained in the book is virtually non existent. As with Weir's other works, the prose consists almost entirely of short declarative statements, one after another. The style is jarring and not conducive to either entertainment or education.
The same novel on a subject of lesser interest would garner only two stars, however it would be difficult to write a novel on Elizabeth rated under three stars, the subject matter is so rich with possibility. This is a swing and a miss.
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