9780140029338 - Jerusalem the Golden

Jerusalem the Golden

'Jerusalem the Golden' by Margaret Drabble is a compelling exploration of ambition, identity, and the search for meaning beyond one's origins. The novel follows Clara Maugham, a young woman from a stifling, lower-middle-class background in the north of England, who escapes to London for university. There, she becomes enamored with the cosmopolitan and intellectually stimulating world of the Denham family, who represent everything she aspires to be. Drabble masterfully captures Clara's internal conflict between her desire for independence and her longing for acceptance within this glamorous new circle. The narrative delves deep into themes of social mobility, the complexities of female friendship, and the often painful process of self-discovery. With its rich characterizations and evocative prose, 'Jerusalem the Golden' offers a nuanced portrayal of a woman's journey towards self-realization in a society that is both liberating and limiting.

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€6.95
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Auteur Margaret Drabble
ISBN 9780140029338
Taal en
Bindwijze Paperback
Tags literary fiction Margaret Drabble British literature social mobility female protagonist

Margaret Drabble's 'Jerusalem the Golden' is a brilliantly observed novel that combines sharp social commentary with deeply personal storytelling. The protagonist, Clara Maugham, is a complex character whose ambitions and vulnerabilities make her journey both relatable and compelling. Drabble's writing is elegant and incisive, capturing the nuances of Clara's relationships and the societal pressures she faces. However, some readers may find the pacing slow at times, as the novel prioritizes character development over plot. The portrayal of the Denham family is particularly striking, offering a critique of the intellectual elite's insularity and pretensions. Despite its occasional sluggishness, the novel's insights into class, gender, and identity are timeless, making 'Jerusalem the Golden' a rewarding read for those who appreciate literary fiction with depth and substance.

In 'Jerusalem the Golden,' Margaret Drabble presents the story of Clara Maugham, a young woman from a dreary provincial town who seeks escape and enlightenment in London. Clara's encounter with the sophisticated Denham family opens her eyes to a world of cultural and intellectual richness far removed from her own upbringing. As she becomes increasingly entangled with the Denhams, Clara must navigate the tensions between her past and her aspirations, between authenticity and assimilation. The novel culminates in a poignant exploration of the sacrifices and compromises inherent in the pursuit of a different life. Drabble's narrative is both a vivid portrait of 1960s England and a timeless meditation on the universal quest for belonging and self-definition.