Hilary Mantel (6 July 1952 – 22 September 2022) was a British writer whose work includes historical fiction, personal memoirs, and short stories.
Life and Career
Hilary Mantel was born on 6 July 1952, in Glossop, United Kingdom.
Mantel attended the Harrytown Convent School and later studied law at the London School of Economics. After completing her degree, she worked in the social work and law sectors, gaining valuable experiences that would later influence her writing.
Hilary Mantel’s literary career is marked by her exceptional talent for historical fiction. Her breakthrough came with “A Place of Greater Safety” (1992), a novel about the French Revolution. However, it was with the “Wolf Hall” trilogy that she achieved widespread acclaim and recognition. The first book, “Wolf Hall” (2009), won the Man Booker Prize and brought the world of Tudor England to life through the eyes of Thomas Cromwell. The sequel, “Bring Up the Bodies” (2012), also won the Booker Prize, making Mantel the first woman to receive the award twice.
Her meticulous research and ability to humanize historical figures set her apart in the world of literature. Apart from novels, Mantel has written essays, short stories, and memoirs, showcasing the breadth of her literary skills. Her notable works are, “A Place of Greater Safety” (1992), “Wolf Hall” (2009), “Bring Up the Bodies” (2012), and “The Mirror and the Light” (2020) – Concluding the Thomas Cromwell trilogy.
She died on 22 September 2022 (age 70 years), in Exeter, United Kingdom.
Award and Legacy
Mantel achieved the remarkable feat of winning the Man Booker Prize for Fiction twice. She first won in 2009 for “Wolf Hall” and then again in 2012 for “Bring Up the Bodies.” This made her the first woman and one of only three authors to have won the prestigious prize more than once.
In 2012, Mantel’s “Bring Up the Bodies” was awarded the Costa Book of the Year, further cementing her status as a literary heavyweight.
In 2014, Mantel was honored with the title of Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire, recognizing her significant contributions to literature.
Mantel has received various other honors and awards for her body of work, including the Golden Booker Prize in 2018, which celebrated the best novel to have won the Booker Prize in its first 50 years.
Mantel revitalized the historical fiction genre with her meticulously researched and vividly imagined portrayals of historical figures. Through her works, she brought the past to life, making it accessible and engaging for readers.
The “Wolf Hall” trilogy, consisting of “Wolf Hall,” “Bring Up the Bodies,” and “The Mirror and the Light,” is a monumental achievement. This trilogy not only garnered critical acclaim and awards but also left an enduring mark on the genre of historical fiction.
Mantel’s exploration of power, politics, and the complexities of human nature, particularly in the court of Henry VIII, resonates with readers. Her ability to humanize historical figures and delve into the psychological depths of her characters sets her apart.
Mantel’s influence extends to aspiring writers and scholars, inspiring them to approach historical subjects with creativity and a fresh perspective. Her unique narrative style and storytelling techniques have left an indelible imprint on the literary landscape.