Sunday 15 September 2019

Dynasty: The Rise and Fall of the House of Caesar, Tom Holland


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Holland’s book on the Julio-Claudian dynasty has the pace and interest of a novel, making it easy to forget you’re reading non-fiction. We are swept through the dangerous and erratic lives of the most powerful men in the world at the time, interlaced with Rome’s origin myth and broader historic notes such as the ability of descendants of freedmen to rise through the ranks. Coming to the topic as a novice, it makes for an entertaining, engaging read.

The history of ancient Rome’s ruling elite is bloodstained and full of intrigue at a time when having even a vague claim to power could leave you with a slit throat. Holland highlights both the impact that the wolfish origin myths had on the Roman psyche, creating driven, violent men, as well as the popularity of gossip and rumour. These rumours are passed down to us with little dissection, whether they are true or not playing second fiddle to the melodrama. It is a valid point however, that even if not true, it is telling that citizens would believe their ruler would set fire to the city in order to make way for a palatial garden, for example.

There are moments where the subjects seem somewhat more relatable – Tiberius’ sorrow at his forced divorce from a wife he loved for a more politically beneficial match, or Claudius’ rejection by his family for his misfortunes from birth. Sympathy is short-lived however as they proceed to murder, rape, and generally abuse their power. None more so perhaps than the last of the dynasty, Nero, whose grief at the death of his wife (by his own hand…) led him to castrating a young boy who resembled the deceased and forcing him to act the role of wife for the rest of his life. Deranged as these behaviours are, and as much as this may seem like a male-dominated tale, there are plenty of ruthlessly ambitious women scheming to manoeuver themselves and their offspring into positions of influence and power.

A very readable introduction to one of history’s most infamous families. The narrative style is occasionally a little odd as it seems to mingle assumed thoughts of the classical figures with Holland’s narrative voice. Not the most probing of historical accounts but one that encapsulates all the drama, excess, and treachery of a family desperate for power.

Pick up a copy here.

Sunday 1 September 2019

In Search of Beatrix Potter

Hill Top
Beatrix Potter’s children’s books have captured the imagination of generations with their beautiful illustrations and witty tales. As I’ve grown older I’ve come to appreciate the woman behind the books even more. Potter was a strong-willed, talented woman who did not let social constraints stand in her way. She also played an important role in the preservation of farmland and Herdwick sheep in the Lake District. She bequeathed her property to the National Trust, ensuring their survival to the present day.

Hill Top in Near Sawrey is open to the public, and although she didn’t live there she did find inspiration and the peace to write a number of her stories there. It has been preserved exactly as she left it, including a room dedicated to her brother’s art. The garden proved the most evocative part of the property, overflowing with plants and a kitchen garden you can easily imagine Peter Rabbit scampering through. The property is very popular so be prepared to wait for your allotted entry time, or even to find it sold out.

Beatrix Potter's paint set
While waiting to explore the building itself it is worth taking the short walk to Moss Eccles Tarn where Potter spent many a happy evening boating with her husband, William Heelis. Despite the frequency of visitors it nonetheless retains a sense of seclusion.

A few miles down the road is picturesque Hawkshead village, home to the Beatrix Potter Gallery. The building itself is thought to be where she first met her husband, adding an extra sense of importance. The gallery showcases her original paintings for the books and offers some context into the process of getting them published and merchandised. I would have like to have seen more of her non-book art but it’s still worth a visit and as they have rotating exhibitions you never know what you’ll see.

Derwent Water
The landscape of the Lakes is familiar from her books and it’s easy to see why so many artists have found inspiration there. The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin features red squirrels, not found in many parts of the UK today, and an adventure involving Derwent Water. A lake in stunning surrounds and small islands that promise adventure, it’s well worth getting out on the water if you’re able.