Thriller novels have always been popular among readers, delivering the thrills and chills that keep them on the edge of their seats till the end. In this article, we will compare two such novels in the genre, Burial Rites by Hannah Kent and “The Wrong” by Lars Emmerich. We will analyze and compare the elements of both novels, ranging from their plot, characters, writing style, themes, and much more. So, let’s dive in and take a closer look at each of these novels and what makes them so intriguing to readers.
A Brief Overview of Burial Rites by Hannah Kent
Burial Rites is a historical fiction thriller novel published in 2013 by the Australian author, Hannah Kent. It is a fictional retelling of the last execution in Iceland, where a woman named Agnes Magnusdottir is accused of murdering two men and setting their farm on fire. The novel sheds light on the life and struggles of Agnes, who is awaiting her execution in the custody of a family. She gradually reveals her story and establishes relationships with family members, challenging the assumptions and accusations made against her.
The novel is set in the early 19th century, a time when Iceland was still a Danish colony. The author has done extensive research on the historical context and has incorporated many details of the time period into the story. This adds to the authenticity of the novel and helps the reader to understand the social and cultural norms of the time.
Burial Rites has received critical acclaim and has been translated into over 20 languages. It has won several awards, including the Victorian Premier’s Literary Award for Best Unpublished Manuscript and the Indie Book Award for Debut Fiction. The novel has also been adapted into a stage play and a film is currently in development.
The Plot of Lars Emmerich’s “The Wrong”
“The Wrong” is a psychological thriller novel published in 2016 by the German author, Lars Emmerich. The story is about a successful criminal defense lawyer, Benjamin Sahlmann, who gets involved in the investigation of a death caused by a hit-and-run driver while on his vacation. He finds a culprit, a young student, who is willing to confess to the crime and is convicted accordingly. However, Benjamin’s conscience is not fully satisfied, and he continues to investigate the case, leading him to uncover more secrets and conspiracies.
As Benjamin delves deeper into the case, he discovers that the young student who confessed to the crime may not be the real culprit. He begins to suspect that there is a larger conspiracy at play, involving powerful people who are trying to cover up the truth. As he uncovers more evidence, Benjamin realizes that his own life is in danger, and he must race against time to expose the truth before it’s too late.
The novel is a gripping page-turner that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Emmerich’s writing is masterful, and he skillfully weaves together a complex plot with well-developed characters and unexpected twists and turns. “The Wrong” is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers and anyone who loves a good mystery.
The Genre of Thriller Novels: What Makes Them So Popular?
Thriller novels essentially keep the audience at the edge of their seats with suspenseful and exciting stories that incorporate elements of mystery, crime, action, and psychological thrill. They often include intriguing characters, a fast-paced and unpredictable plot, unexpected twists, and a thrilling climax. The genre has been popularized by many notable authors, such as Agatha Christie, Stephen King, Dan Brown, and more, delivering thrilling reads that keep readers hooked till the very end.
One of the reasons why thriller novels are so popular is that they provide an escape from reality. Readers can immerse themselves in a world of danger and excitement, experiencing the thrill of the chase and the satisfaction of a resolution. Additionally, the genre often explores complex themes and issues, such as morality, justice, and the human psyche, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking. With the rise of digital reading platforms, thriller novels have become more accessible than ever, allowing readers to easily discover new authors and titles. Overall, the genre of thriller novels continues to captivate readers with its gripping stories and unforgettable characters.
A Comparative Analysis of the Protagonists in Both Novels
Both Burial Rites and “The Wrong” offer complex and intriguing characters as their protagonists. Burial Rites takes a close look at Agnes, who is portrayed as a misunderstood woman accused of a crime she may or may not have committed. She is a strong and resilient character, fighting against the prejudices and judgements of society and trying to clear her name. On the other hand, “The Wrong” portrays Benjamin Sahlmann, a seemingly successful and righteous lawyer who gradually becomes more and more entangled in the case of the hit-and-run driver. He ultimately learns that the truth is much more complicated than it initially appeared, and he must confront his inner demons to uncover it.
The Use of Setting as a Tool for Building Suspense in Thriller Novels
The setting of a novel can often play an essential role in creating the atmosphere and tension required for a thriller novel. Burial Rites is set in Iceland in the 1800s, with its harsh and unforgiving landscapes adding to the overall gloominess and isolation that the protagonist feels. In contrast, “The Wrong” takes place in sunny Florida, a stark contrast from the dark and gritty world of criminal law it portrays. However, this sunny setting becomes a tool of irony in the novel, as the actions taking place are far from being positive and uplifting.
The Importance of Historical Context in Burial Rites and Its Absence in “The Wrong”
Burial Rites is unique in that it is a work of historical fiction, meaning that it draws inspiration and facts from real events that took place in Iceland. This background gives the story a sense of authenticity and also adds extra layers of intrigue and complexity to the plot. On the other hand, “The Wrong” is entirely a work of fiction, with no historical context to inform the story. However, the use of a contemporary setting helps to establish the relevance and relatability of the plot to modern-day readers.
An Exploration of the Writing Styles Employed by Kent and Emmerich
The writing style of a novelist can shape the tone, pacing, and overall experience of reading a book. Kent’s writing in Burial Rites is lyrical and poetic, weaving together the language of the time period with descriptions of the harsh nature of her setting. In contrast, Emmerich’s writing style in “The Wrong” is fast-paced and plot-driven, with dialogue and action flowing quickly from page to page. Emmerich also employs a third-person omniscient narration, providing multiple perspectives on the events taking place in the novel.
Themes of Guilt, Redemption, and Justice in Both Novels
Both Burial Rites and “The Wrong” touch on themes of guilt, redemption, and justice, building on the moral complexities of the characters and their actions. In Burial Rites, Agnes struggles with the guilt and shame of her supposed crimes, while seeking redemption and vindication for herself. In “The Wrong”, Benjamin’s guilty conscience drives him to uncover the truth and pursue justice at any cost, even if it means jeopardizing his own career and relationships.
A Critique of the Endings: Which Novel Provides a More Satisfying Conclusion?
The climax and conclusion of a novel can often determine how satisfied the readers feel at the end of reading it. Burial Rites’ conclusion is both haunting and beautiful, providing a resolution that is both heartbreaking and satisfying. Its epilogue provides a sense of closure and finality, backed by historical facts. In contrast, “The Wrong” has a more open-ended conclusion, leaving some of the loose ends untied and the fates of certain characters unclear. This approach can be both a strength and a weakness, depending on the readers’ expectations and preferences.
In summary, both Burial Rites and “The Wrong” are thrilling novels that keep readers engaged till the last page. They offer unique and complex characters, thought-provoking themes, and exciting and unpredictable plots. By comparing and contrasting these novels, we can better understand the genre of thriller novels and the techniques and elements used by authors to keep their audiences captivated.