Geraldine Brooks’s novel “Horse” delves into America’s past, exploring the violence that has shaped the nation. The inspiration for this masterful work came from a conversation with a Smithsonian Museum staff member about a celebrated 19th-century racehorse that captivated thousands of spectators. Brooks weaves a narrative around this magnificent horse, its trainer, the artist who painted them, and those who later restored the horse’s skeleton in a museum.
The novel intricately delves into the lives of historical figures, shedding light on the brutal treatment of African Americans during the era of slavery and its enduring impact today. Brooks boldly centers the story around two young African American men, each facing different challenges but united by their resilience and fortitude against cruelty and adversity.
Set against the backdrop of the antebellum South, the novel vividly portrays the world of horse training and racing, highlighting the geopolitical tensions and greed that drove this industry. Through the character of Jarret, an enslaved man with a deep bond with the horse Lexington, readers are immersed in the complexities of plantation life and the struggles faced by those owned by others.
Brooks’s profound understanding of horses shines through in her detailed descriptions of thoroughbreds, their anatomy, breeding practices, and the intense care they require. The narrative skillfully navigates the world of portraiture, revealing the intersection of art, wealth, and institutional rivalries in the 19th century. The novel’s exploration of violence, both towards humans and animals, offers a poignant reflection on societal power dynamics.
Historical fiction has often been critiqued for its portrayal of the past, but Brooks’s meticulous research and nuanced character development elevate “Horse” to a work of art. By offering a fresh perspective on American history, Brooks challenges traditional narratives and delves into themes of self-definition, progress, and change.
In a genre sometimes dismissed as “cheap” or lacking in literary merit, Brooks’s work stands out for its intelligence, sensitivity, and refusal to romanticize the past. Through “Horse,” she invites readers to confront the darker aspects of history while celebrating the resilience and humanity that endure through generations.
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