Deconstructing Power: An Interview with Robert Harris on Conclave
Robert Harris, a master of political thrillers, delves into the intricacies of power and faith in his gripping novel, Conclave. This interview explores the meticulous research, compelling characters, and underlying themes that make Conclave a captivating read.
Keywords: Robert Harris, Conclave, political thriller, Vatican, papal conclave, power, faith, intrigue, novel, interview, author interview
The Intricacies of the Conclave: Research and Reality
Q: Your research for Conclave is legendary. Can you share some insights into the process of accurately depicting the secretive world of a papal conclave?
A: The challenge was immense. Access to the inner workings of a conclave is, understandably, extremely limited. My approach involved painstaking research, drawing from historical accounts, theological texts, and interviews with experts on the Catholic Church and Vatican politics. I spent considerable time studying the lives and personalities of previous popes, the intricacies of canon law, and the political machinations that often lie beneath the surface of religious devotion. The goal wasn’t simply to be accurate, but to capture the atmosphere, the tension, the sheer weight of history that hangs over such an event.
Characters Driven by Faith and Ambition: Creating Believable Cardinals
Q: The cardinals in Conclave are complex characters, each driven by their own ambitions and beliefs. How did you develop these multifaceted personalities?
A: I wanted to avoid stereotypes. Each cardinal represents a different faction within the Church, a different national perspective, and a unique theological viewpoint. Their motivations are often intertwined—a desire for power is not always incompatible with genuine faith. Some are driven by ambition, others by a deep sense of duty, and still others by a profound conviction that they are chosen to guide the Church. This internal conflict, this blend of personal ambition and spiritual commitment, is what makes them so compelling.
Power, Intrigue, and the Human Condition: The Underlying Themes
Q: Conclave explores themes of power, faith, and the human condition. What message, if any, do you hope readers take away from the novel?
A: I don’t set out to preach or moralize. My aim is to explore the human drama that unfolds when power is concentrated, when extraordinary decisions must be made under immense pressure. The novel touches upon the complexities of faith, the seductive nature of power, and the inherent contradictions within human nature. It's a story about choices, about the weight of responsibility, and about the enduring questions that confront us all, regardless of our beliefs or ambitions.
The Lasting Impact of Conclave: A Timeless Thriller
Q: What do you hope readers gain from reading Conclave?
A: I hope readers are transported to the heart of the Vatican, immersed in the suspense and intrigue of the conclave. More than that, I hope they engage with the characters on a human level, grappling with their motivations and wrestling with the questions the novel raises about faith, power, and the enduring mysteries of the human spirit. Ultimately, Conclave is a thriller that explores the timeless struggle between human ambition and spiritual conviction.
This interview only scratches the surface of the rich tapestry woven within Conclave. Robert Harris’ masterful storytelling, meticulous research, and compelling characters make this a novel that demands to be read and reread, revealing new layers of meaning with each encounter.
