Robertson Davies
William Robertson Davies was a renowned Canadian novelist, playwright, critic, journalist, and professor. He is best known for his series of trilogies, including the Deptford Trilogy, the Salterton Trilogy, and the Cornish Trilogy.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
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1. Fifth Business
The novel follows the life of Dunstan Ramsay, a man haunted by a childhood accident that he believes he caused. The book explores his guilt and its impact on his life, as well as his relationships with others, including a woman he loves but cannot have, a brilliant but troubled friend, and a saintly fool. Throughout his life, Ramsay seeks redemption and understanding in the realms of history, mythology, and religion.
The 1803rd Greatest Book of All Time -
2. The Deptford Trilogy
"The Deptford Trilogy" is a series of interconnected novels that explore the life of a man from a small Canadian town named Deptford, and the ripple effects of a single childhood event that shaped the lives of three boys. The narrative weaves themes of love, guilt, art, and the complexity of human nature. The story is told from multiple perspectives and spans several decades, providing a deep exploration of the characters' psychological and spiritual development.
The 2170th Greatest Book of All Time -
3. The Cunning Man
The novel follows the life of a Toronto doctor who uses his knowledge of medicine and his understanding of human nature to treat his patients. He believes in the healing power of the human spirit and often uses unconventional methods to treat his patients. The narrative is filled with his interesting patients and their stories, as well as his own personal journey. The book also explores themes of spirituality, love, and the complexities of human nature.
The 4573rd Greatest Book of All Time -
4. The Rebel Angels
The novel is a satirical and erudite exploration of the clash between the spiritual and the carnal, set within the hallowed halls of a Canadian university. It follows the lives of a group of scholars who become embroiled in a series of events sparked by the death of a wealthy art collector. As the academics vie for the deceased's valuable collection, the narrative delves into themes of gnosticism, alchemy, and the complexities of human desire. The story weaves together the personal ambitions, romantic entanglements, and intellectual pursuits of its characters, revealing the moral and ethical dilemmas that often accompany the quest for knowledge and power.
The 10327th Greatest Book of All Time -
5. The Manticore
The novel follows a man who, after the death of his father, seeks therapy to understand the complex relationship he had with him. Through the therapy sessions, the protagonist uncovers the depth of his father's influence on him, as well as his own personal identity. The narrative explores themes of self-discovery, the power of the subconscious mind, and the influence of past generations on the present.
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6. World of Wonders
"World of Wonders" is the third novel in a trilogy that follows the life of a man named Paul Dempster, who is kidnapped as a child by a magician and later becomes a world-renowned illusionist himself. The story, narrated by his childhood friend, explores themes of identity, fate, and the magic of life itself. Through a series of flashbacks and current events, the protagonist's life from childhood to adulthood is unveiled, revealing a complex character who has been shaped by a series of extraordinary experiences.
