Grok says: Comparing Donald Trump’s presidency to Wolf Hall, Hilary Mantel’s historical novel about Thomas Cromwell’s rise in the court of Henry VIII, involves drawing parallels between the political dynamics, personalities, and themes of the two. Here’s a concise analysis:
Courtly Intrigue and Power Struggles:
Wolf Hall depicts a world of ruthless political maneuvering, where Cromwell navigates a treacherous court filled with alliances, betrayals, and shifting loyalties. Trump’s presidency (2017–2021) and his ongoing political influence similarly feature intense factionalism, with loyalists (e.g., MAGA supporters) and adversaries (e.g., establishment Republicans, Democrats) vying for influence. Like Cromwell, Trump thrives in chaos, often orchestrating or exploiting divisions to maintain power.
Outsider vs. Establishment:
Cromwell, a low-born blacksmith’s son, rises through intellect and pragmatism in a world dominated by nobles. Trump, a businessman and media figure, positioned himself as an outsider challenging the entrenched political elite. Both leverage unconventional paths to power, relying on charisma, strategic alliances, and a knack for reading the moment.
Polarization and Loyalty:
In Wolf Hall, loyalty to Henry VIII (or Cromwell) is paramount, and dissenters face exile or worse. Trump’s presidency demanded similar loyalty, with public feuds (often via social media) targeting critics like John McCain or Mitt Romney, mirroring the Tudor court’s brutal enforcement of allegiance. Trump’s base, like Henry’s courtiers, often remained steadfast despite controversies.
Pragmatism Over Ideology:
Cromwell’s decisions are practical, bending principle to achieve results (e.g., facilitating Henry’s divorce). Trump’s policies—tax cuts, deregulation, or foreign policy moves like the Abraham Accords—often prioritized tangible wins over ideological purity, even if they alienated traditional conservatives or allies.
Larger-Than-Life Figures:
Henry VIII’s mercurial personality dominates Wolf Hall, much as Trump’s outsized persona—amplified by media and X posts—defined his presidency. Both command attention, inspire devotion or hatred, and reshape their environments through sheer force of will.
Moral Ambiguity:
Wolf Hall portrays Cromwell as neither hero nor villain but a complex figure navigating a brutal world. Trump’s presidency elicits similar ambiguity: supporters view him as a disruptor of a corrupt system, while critics see authoritarian tendencies. Both figures challenge simple moral judgments.
Key Differences:
Wolf Hall’s Cromwell is calculating and discreet, while Trump is impulsive and public.
The Tudor court’s violence (executions) contrasts with modern political “cancellations” or legal battles.
Cromwell serves a king; Trump positions himself as the central authority.
