As the book opens, we find that at the beginning of the 19th century, English magic has been reduced to theoretical scholarship. Magicians aren't practicing magicians but ones absorbed in the history of magic in England. Then, as the Napoleonic wars begin, the first practical magician in 300 years lets himself be known. Mr Norrell is dedicated to his craft and has collected and studied magical texts for years. In order to restore the prominence of English magic, Mr Norrell moves to London where he works closely with the government on the French problem abroad. In London he meets the only other practicing magician in England, the young and brazen Jonathan Strange.
While Clarke's story focuses on the development and bickering personalities of these two characters, she is prone to many, many digressions. These divergences usually come in the form of footnotes and historical background which, in turn, add to the mystique of the book, giving it a biographical feel. Even at 800 pages, it seems a little too short.
Rebel Without a Walkman
While Clarke's story focuses on the development and bickering personalities of these two characters, she is prone to many, many digressions. These divergences usually come in the form of footnotes and historical background which, in turn, add to the mystique of the book, giving it a biographical feel. Even at 800 pages, it seems a little too short.
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