Restoration (Tremain novel)

RestorationTremain

1999 novel by Rose Tremain

Restoration
Author	Rose Tremain
Language	English
Publisher	Hamish Hamilton
ISBN	0-241-12358-2
Pages	416

Restoration is a historical novel by Rose Tremain, published in 1989. The novel is set in 17th century England during the reign of Charles II. It follows the life of Robert Merivel, a physician who rises to prominence in the court of Charles II but later falls from grace and seeks redemption.

Plot summary

The protagonist, Robert Merivel, is a young physician who becomes a favorite of King Charles II. He is given a position at court and a country estate in exchange for marrying the king's mistress, Celia, in a sham marriage. Merivel enjoys the luxuries of court life but eventually falls out of favor due to his indiscretions and is banished from court.

Merivel then takes up a position at a Quaker mental hospital, where he begins to find a sense of purpose and redemption. Throughout the novel, Merivel's journey is one of self-discovery and personal growth, set against the backdrop of the Restoration period.

Characters

• Robert Merivel - The protagonist, a physician who rises and falls in the court of Charles II.
• King Charles II - The king of England, known for his hedonistic court.
• Celia Clemence - The king's mistress, whom Merivel marries in a sham marriage.
• John Pearce - A Quaker and the head of the mental hospital where Merivel works.
• Katherine - A patient at the mental hospital who forms a close bond with Merivel.

Themes

The novel explores themes of identity, redemption, and the search for meaning. It also delves into the contrasts between the opulence of the court and the stark realities of life outside it.

Adaptations

Restoration was adapted into a film in 1995, starring Robert Downey Jr., Sam Neill, and Meg Ryan. The film received critical acclaim and won two Academy Awards.

Reception

The novel was well-received by critics and readers alike for its rich historical detail and complex character development. It has been praised for its vivid portrayal of the Restoration period and its insightful exploration of human nature.

See also

• Restoration (England)
• King Charles II of England
• Historical novel