The reading order of the Pillars of the Earth saga

About the saga

The saga "The Pillars of the Earth" by British author Ken Follett is one of the most emblematic series of the historical literature contemporary. Set in the fictional town of Kingsbridge, England, this series spans several centuries, from the Middle Ages to the Industrial Revolution, exploring the evolution of society, religion and architecture through generations of deeply intertwined characters.

The construction of majestic Gothic cathedrals, political intrigues and religious conflicts are central themes that capture the essence of each era portrayed.

Ken Follett, initially known for his thrillers, surprised the literary world with "The Pillars of the Earth" in 1989, a a novel that departs from his previous works to immerse yourself in a detailed recreation of the 12th century.

Follett's meticulous historical research and narrative skill They have brought to life a series that not only entertains, but also educates about the challenges and triumphs of bygone eras..

The saga It has been adapted into various formats, including a television miniseries in 2010 and a video game in 2017, reflecting its lasting impact on popular culture.

Below is the recommended reading order for The Pillars of the Earth series, along with a brief synopsis of each book:

Reading order of The Pillars of the Earth

1. The darkness and the dawn (2020)

The latest book to be published, this prequel takes us back to the year 997, the end of the Dark Ages, where England faces constant invasions and internal conflicts. The story follows three characters: Edgar, a young shipbuilder; Ragna, a Norman noblewoman; and Aldred, a monk with aspirations of transforming his abbey into a center of knowledge.

Their lives become intertwined in a world of violence and power struggles, laying the foundations for what will become the future city of Kingsbridge.

2. The Pillars of the Earth (1989)

Set in the 12th century, this novel tells the story of the construction of a Gothic cathedral in Kingsbridge. Through the lives of characters such as Tom Builder, his family, and Prior Philip, Themes of ambition, love and betrayal are explored in an era marked by civil war. and the struggle between the Church and the monarchy.

The detailed description of medieval architecture and life offers a deep immersion into the era.

3. A world without end (2007)

Two centuries after The Pillars of the Earth, in the 14th century, Kingsbridge once again becomes the main setting. The story follows the descendants of the original characters as they face new challenges, including the devastating Black Death.

The novel explores how society deals with disease, change and the constant struggle for power, reflecting human resilience in times of adversity.

4. A column of fire (2017)

Set in the 16th century, during the reign of Elizabeth I, the novel addresses the religious tensions between Catholics and Protestants in Europe. Ned Willard, the protagonist, finds himself involved in the emerging English secret service, working for his queen in a world where intolerance and conspiracy are commonplace.

The plot highlights the importance of religious tolerance and diplomacy in an era of sectarian conflict.

5. The armor of light (2023)

Set in the 18th century, at the height of the Industrial Revolution, the novel follows the inhabitants of Kingsbridge as they navigate rapid technological and social change.

The introduction of new machines and production methods generates conflicts between tradition and innovation, exploring how these advances affect the lives of the characters and the very structure of society.

Pack with the complete works

Do you want to save some money and have a beautiful case with all the works? Now you can buy a pack in which you will find the 4 main novels to enjoy the story from beginning to end.

The greatness of the Pillars of the Earth saga

The Pillars of the Earth series not only offers an engaging narrative, but also provides a detailed look at the historical and social evolution over the centuries in England. Each novel, with its rich setting and complex characters, It allows the reader to immerse themselves in different eras, understanding the challenges and triumphs of past generations.The combination of historical facts with fictional plots creates a reading experience that is both educational and deeply entertaining.

For those interested in delving deeper into the history of Kingsbridge and its inhabitants, it is recommended to follow the reading order presented, starting with the prequel and moving forward chronologicallyThis literary tour offers a more complete understanding of the evolution of the city and its characters over time.

Readers' Note:

It is also worth mentioning that the saga has transcended the literary realm, with adaptations that have brought the story to new audiences. The 2010 television miniseries, for example, allowed the majesty of the cathedral and the complexity of the characters to be seen on screen.

The 2017 video game also offered an interactive experience, allowing players to immerse themselves in the world of Kingsbridge in a unique way. The Pillars of the Earth saga is a monumental work that combines history, drama and a deep exploration of the human condition.

Ken Follett's mastery of creating detailed worlds and memorable characters has cemented his place in contemporary literature, offering readers an unforgettable journey through the centuries.