Rule Britannia
Rule Britannia
Book Brief
Beta340
Novel • Fiction
Cornwall, England • 1970s
2013
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Rule Britannia by Daphne du Maurier explores the story of a person named Emma and her eccentric grandmother, Mad, as they navigate an unexpected situation in their Cornish village. The novel depicts their challenges and resilience in the face of geopolitical upheaval, focusing on themes of community, identity, and power dynamics.
Mysterious
Melancholic
Suspenseful
Contemplative
Dark
Reviews & Readership
2,284 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Rule Britannia by Daphne du Maurier offers a compelling exploration of political chaos and isolation. Praised for its atmospheric tension and character depth, the novel captivates with its prescient themes. However, some critics feel it lacks in pacing and resolution. Du Maurier's adept storytelling keeps readers engaged, though opinions on its conclusion vary.
Who Should Read Rule Britannia?
Readers who enjoy geopolitical intrigue with dystopian elements and strong female leads would appreciate Daphne du Maurier’s Rule Britannia. Fans of John Wyndham’s The Day of the Triffids or Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale may find the novel's themes of societal upheaval and resilience fascinating.
2,284 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Rule Britannia marked a departure from Daphne du Maurier's usual gothic themes, instead exploring speculative fiction by depicting a near-future Britain dealing with complex political scenarios.
Published in 1972, Rule Britannia intriguingly reflects the socio-political anxieties of the time, particularly in the context of Britain's relationship with the United States and its own national identity.
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Daphne du Maurier's portrayal of the character Mad, originally written as a male, was altered to a female character to reflect strong feminine perspectives, befitting du Maurier's interest in exploring gender dynamics.
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340
Novel • Fiction
Cornwall, England • 1970s
2013
Adult
18+ years
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