Fanatic Heart
Fanatic Heart by Tom Keneally, published by Random House Australia in November 2022, is a historical fiction novel that delves into the life of John Mitchel, an Irishman who navigates the complexities of treason, activism, and nationalism. The narrative follows Mitchel’s journey from being charged with treason in Ireland to his transportation across various lands, including Bermuda, South Africa, and Van Diemen’s Land. As he evolves from a lawyer and journalist into a farmer and activist, the book explores his controversial views, particularly his support for slavery in the United States, shaped by his experiences during the Irish famine.
Readers will find a rich exploration of Mitchel’s character, alongside the steadfast support of his wife, Jenny Mitchel, who faces her own challenges while advocating for Irish nationalism. The novel presents a nuanced examination of conflicting beliefs and the moral dilemmas faced by its characters, particularly through the lens of Tom Keneally, who grapples with his own heritage as a descendant of convicts. With 464 pages, this edition offers a detailed portrayal of historical events and personal struggles, inviting readers to reflect on the complexities of identity and activism in a turbulent era.
Official synopsis Publisher
John Mitchel, Irishman, lawyer, journalist, activist and politician, is a complex character. Charged with treason in Ireland and tried by an English judge he was snuck off mainland Ireland on the day he was charged to avoid a breakout and rebellion. He was transported initially to Bermuda, then to South Africa and then to Van Diemen’s Land where as an Irishman he was supported by many and given a ticket of leave. He soon became a farmer and activist and was eventually secreted out of Australia to the USA, where it was felt he could be more active for the Irish cause.
A powerful voice and force for Irish nationalism who also found himself, after landing in the US, supporting the ownership of slaves. This was partly driven by living through the Irish famine. He believed Irish workers were worse off than slaves, neither fed or paid in currency for their work. And partly seeing the absolute adherence to capitalism and the pursuit of wealth in New York. People were dying in horrific industrial and transport accidents in front of those getting wealthy and no heed was paid.
To support her husband through all the charges against him, Jenny Mitchel, when she too could have been punished for airing her beliefs on Irish nationalism, publicly supported his campaigns. She also packed up her many children and followed her prisoner and convict husband to a number of different continents to continue to support her husband and their beliefs.
Tom, a proud Irishman and descendant of convicts on his maternal and paternal sides, disagrees with many of Mitchel’s beliefs and behaviours and has to wrestle with these conflicts in the novel. As ever, Tom Keneally surprises readers and takes on new and challenging characters and ideas.
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