Exploring the Fascinating Life of Hilary Mantel

Hilary Mantel (6 July 1952 – 22 September 2022) was a British writer whose work includes historical fiction, personal memoirs, and short stories.

Early Life And Education

Hilary Mantel was born Hilary Mary Thompson on July 6, 1952, in Glossop, Derbyshire, England. She was the eldest of three children in a Roman Catholic family of Irish descent. Her parents were Margaret (née Foster) and Henry Thompson, a clerk. Mantel attended St Charles Roman Catholic Primary School and later Harrytown Convent School in Romiley, Cheshire. She began studying law at the London School of Economics but transferred to the University of Sheffield, where she graduated with a degree in Jurisprudence in 1973.

Career And Achievements

Hilary Mantel was a renowned British writer, celebrated for her historical fiction, personal memoirs, and short stories. She began her literary career with the publication of her first novel, “Every Day Is Mother’s Day,” in 1985. However, it was her “Wolf Hall” trilogy that brought her international acclaim. The trilogy, consisting of “Wolf Hall” (2009), “Bring Up the Bodies” (2012), and “The Mirror and the Light” (2020), explores the life of Thomas Cromwell in the court of Henry VIII. Mantel’s meticulous research and vivid storytelling earned her two Booker Prizes, making her the first British writer and the first woman to win the award twice. In addition to the Booker Prizes, Mantel received numerous other accolades. “Wolf Hall” won the 2009 Man Booker Prize for Fiction and the Walter Scott Prize, and was shortlisted for the 2009 Costa Novel Award and the 2010 Orange Prize for Fiction. “Bring Up the Bodies” also won the 2012 Costa Book of the Year and the 2012 Booker Prize. Mantel’s contributions to literature were further recognized with a CBE in 2006 and a DBE in 2014.

Beyond her historical novels, Mantel wrote a variety of works, including the memoir “Giving Up the Ghost” (2003) and the novel “Beyond Black” (2005), showcasing her versatility as a writer. Her legacy is marked by her ability to bring historical figures to life with depth and nuance, leaving an indelible mark on contemporary literature.

Notable Events And Milestones

Hilary Mantel significant milestones in her life include her education at the London School of Economics and the University of Sheffield, her marriage to Gerald McEwen, and her move to Botswana, which influenced her writing career. Mantel’s most notable works are her Thomas Cromwell trilogy: “Wolf Hall” (2009), “Bring Up the Bodies” (2012), and “The Mirror & the Light” (2020), which earned her two Booker Prizes. Mantel’s lasting impact on history and culture is profound. She revitalized the historical fiction genre with her meticulously researched and vividly imagined portrayals of historical figures, making the past accessible and engaging for modern readers. Her works have sold millions of copies worldwide, influencing both literature and popular culture. Mantel’s contributions extend beyond her novels; she delivered the Reith Lectures on BBC Radio 4 in 2017, discussing the role of history in culture. Her legacy continues to inspire writers and readers alike, cementing her place as one of the greatest English novelists of the 21st century.

Awards And Honors

Hilary Mantel, a renowned British author, received numerous awards and honors throughout her career. Here are some of the most notable:

• **Booker Prize**: Mantel won this prestigious award twice, first in 2009 for “Wolf Hall” and again in 2012 for its sequel, “Bring Up the Bodies”.
• **Walter Scott Prize**: She received this award in 2010 for “Wolf Hall” and again in 2021 for “The Mirror and the Light”.
• **National Book Critics Circle Award**: Mantel won this award in 2009 for “Wolf Hall”.
• **Costa Novel Award**: She won this award in 2012 for “Bring Up the Bodies”.
• **CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire)**: Mantel was awarded this honor in 2006 for her contributions to literature.
• **Honorary DLitt**: She received an honorary Doctor of Letters from Sheffield Hallam University in 2009.
• **Hawthornden Prize**: Mantel won this prize in 1996 for her novel “An Experiment in Love”.
• **Winifred Holtby Memorial Prize**: She received this award for her novel “Fludd”.
• **Cheltenham Prize**: Also awarded for “Fludd”.
• **Southern Arts Literature Prize**: Another recognition for “Fludd”.

These accolades highlight Mantel’s significant impact on the literary world and her exceptional talent as a writer.

Additional Resources

Certainly! Here are some resources to explore more about Hilary Mantel:

Books

• **”Giving Up the Ghost”** – This memoir by Hilary Mantel provides a deep insight into her life and the experiences that shaped her writing.
• **”The Mirror and the Light”** – The final book in the Wolf Hall trilogy, which delves into the life of Thomas Cromwell.
• **”Mantel Pieces: Royal Bodies and Other Writing from the London Review of Books”** – A collection of Mantel’s essays and reviews.

Documentaries

• **”Hilary Mantel: Return to Wolf Hall”** – This BBC documentary explores Mantel’s life and the themes of her Wolf Hall trilogy.
• **”The World of Hilary Mantel”** – A documentary that delves into her literary career and personal history.

Museums and Libraries

• **The British Library** – Often hosts exhibitions and events related to prominent authors, including Hilary Mantel.
• **The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens** – Offers resources and events that celebrate Mantel’s work.

These resources should provide a comprehensive look into Hilary Mantel’s life and work. Enjoy your exploration!

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