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Description
Published in 1989, The PIllars of the Earth follows the building of a cathedral in 12th-century Kingsbridge, England. It is Ken Follett's best-selling book and marked a major departure from the thrillers for which he was known.
Summary
Tom Builder is a poor but honourable stonemason who lost his job as a builder because the cruel, sadistic lord William Hamleigh was turned down by young Lady Aliena when he proposed marriage, as Tom Builder was building their new home. Starving and destitute, Tom's wife Agnes dies in the... read more (warning: may contain spoilers)
Cast of Characters/Important People
- Tom Builder: A penniless but talented stonemason and architect.
- Ellen: Tom's second wife and mother to Jack.
- Jack Jackson (Builder): Tom's stepson and a talented architect and stonemason in his own right.
- Prior Philip: A benevolent monk intent on improving the cathedral and priory of Kingsbridge.
- William Hamleigh: Main antagonist. Sadistic local gentry.
- Aliena: William's love interest, eventually Jack's beloved.
- Richard of Kingsbridge: Brother of Aliena.
- Alfred Builder: Tom's biological son; stepbrother to Jack.
- Martha: Tom's daughter and Alfred's sister; stepsister to Jack.
- Agnes: Tom's first wife; mother to Martha and Alfred.
- Waleran Bigod: Prior Philip's polar opposite in the area.
First Sentence
In a broad valley, at the foot of a sloping hillside, beside a clear bubbling stream, Tom was building a house.
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