The Cornish Trilogy: The Rebel Angels; What's Bred in the Bone; The Lyre of Orpheus : Book Review

"The Cornish Trilogy" by Robertson Davies is a captivating collection of three interrelated novels set in the fictional town of Cornish, Ontario. Through its engaging plotlines and well-developed characters, this trilogy explores themes of mystery, academia, art, and the human experience.

The first book, "The Rebel Angels," introduces readers to a group of academics at a Canadian university who find themselves entangled in the enigmatic history of a manuscript. Davies skillfully weaves together a narrative filled with intrigue, clever wit, and academic satire.

In the second book, "What's Bred in the Bone," we are introduced to Francis Cornish, a talented artist whose past secrets slowly unravel. Davies delves into Francis's life, creating a complex and multi-layered story that keeps readers hooked until the very end.

The final installment, "The Lyre of Orpheus," focuses on the Cornish Foundation and their efforts to stage an opera. As the characters navigate the challenges and dramas of the foundation, Davies expertly combines elements of mystery, satire, and intellectual depth to create a compelling narrative.

One of the standout aspects of this trilogy is the depth and complexity of its characters. Davies excels at crafting well-rounded protagonists with flaws and motivations that feel authentic. Through their narratives, he offers insightful commentary on identity, morality, and the human condition, allowing readers to connect with and ponder upon these timeless themes.

What are readers saying?

The reception of Robertson Davies' book "The Cornish Trilogy" has been varied, with readers expressing a range of opinions. Overall, the author's storytelling prowess and ability to create complex characters have been highly appreciated by readers.

Davies has received much praise for his skillful writing, with many reviewers lauding his talent for crafting intricate and multi-layered narratives. Readers find his writing style engaging and commend the way he seamlessly weaves together different storylines and themes throughout the trilogy. The author's attention to detail and ability to vividly describe the settings of the novels also captivate readers, immersing them in the story.

The characters in "The Cornish Trilogy" have also garnered positive feedback from reviewers. They are described as well-developed and relatable, with their flaws and struggles making them more human. The interactions between the characters are often commended for their depth and authenticity, adding an additional layer of complexity to the narrative.

Davies' wit and humor are also standout elements in his writing, with many reviewers enjoying the clever and enjoyable humor present in the book. The author's ability to inject light-hearted moments into the storylines adds balance to the overall tone and keeps readers entertained.

While the majority of reviews are positive, some readers found the book to be slow-paced or overly complex. They felt that the intricate plotlines and numerous characters made it difficult for them to fully engage with the story. Despite these criticisms, many still appreciated Davies' writing style and the depth of his storytelling.

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