Barry Unsworth

Barry Unsworth was a British writer known for his historical fiction. He won the Booker Prize for his novel 'Sacred Hunger' and was shortlisted for the same prize multiple times.

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.

  1. 1. Sacred Hunger

    "Sacred Hunger" is a historical novel that explores the Atlantic slave trade in the 18th century. The story follows the journey of a Liverpool merchant's ship, filled with slaves, as it travels from Africa to the Americas. The narrative delves into the harsh realities of the slave trade, the inhuman conditions aboard the ship, and the moral complexities faced by the crew. After a mutiny, the survivors establish a utopian community in Florida, only to face the threat of civilization once again. The novel is a profound examination of greed, power, and the human capacity for cruelty.

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  2. 2. The Quality Of Mercy

    Set in the late 18th century, this historical novel unfolds against the backdrop of the abolitionist movement in England, exploring themes of justice, morality, and human dignity. The narrative follows the aftermath of a notorious slave ship trial, delving into the lives of various characters, including a determined abolitionist lawyer, a destitute miner seeking justice, and a former slave yearning for freedom. As their stories intertwine, the novel paints a vivid picture of a society grappling with the moral complexities of slavery, while highlighting the enduring struggle for compassion and equality in a world fraught with prejudice and exploitation.

  3. 3. Morality Play

    Set in 14th-century England, this historical novel follows a young priest who joins a group of traveling players after fleeing his monastery. As they journey through the countryside, the troupe becomes embroiled in a local murder mystery, choosing to depict the crime in their performances. Through their investigation, they uncover unsettling truths about the murder and the community, challenging societal norms and the nature of justice. The narrative explores themes of morality, identity, and the transformative power of art, all set against the backdrop of a medieval world teetering on the brink of change.

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