Cathedral

The novel Cathedral explores obsession, mysticism, and art through the lens of a monumental construction project in a medieval town.

At the heart of Cathedral lies the intricate tale of its construction in the 12th and 13th centuries within the fictional town of Hagenburg. This monumental project draws together a diverse cast of characters, each whose fate is intertwined with the shifting political and economic currents of the time. From the bishop and his treasurer to local merchants and humble stonecutters, the Cathedral's rise impacts everyone in the town, including its Jewish inhabitants, illustrating how ambition and desire can shape lives in unexpected ways.

Ben Hopkins crafts a rich narrative that explores themes of obsession, mysticism, and art, creating a choral novel that resonates with the complexities of human experience. The story weaves through the vicissitudes of mercantilism and the power struggles that define the era, showcasing how the Cathedral, while a symbol of faith, does not necessarily uphold morality or charity. The characters are vividly drawn, each contributing to the tapestry of life that surrounds the Cathedral's construction.

Cathedral is not just a historical novel; it is an ambitious blend of adventure, intrigue, and philosophical exploration. Readers who appreciate the works of authors like Umberto Eco and Hilary Mantel will find themselves captivated by the immersive atmosphere and beautiful prose that Hopkins delivers. This remarkable feat of imagination invites readers to reflect on the nature of desire and the human condition against the backdrop of a grand architectural endeavor.