Comrade Jacob by David Caute

Comrade Jacob delves into the life of a pivotal historical figure, offering a unique perspective on the intersection of personal ambition and political turmoil. The book provides an intimate look at the man behind the legend, revealing the complexities and contradictions that defined his era. /n/n Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, the author paints a vivid portrait of a time when ideologies clashed and the fate of nations hung in the balance. This is not just a biography; it's a journey through the heart of a revolution, seen through the eyes of one of its most enigmatic characters.

Reviews

Goodreads · 2025-12-05

good 4.00

The book is praised for its humanitarian and compassionate portrayal of Gerrard Winstanley. It is also noted for being remarkably free from sloganeering and dogma.

This book stands out for its nuanced and compassionate portrayal of Gerrard Winstanley, a figure often overshadowed by the tumultuous events of the English Revolution. The reviewer appreciates the author's ability to present Winstanley's humanitarian ideals without resorting to sloganeering or dogma, making the character relatable and inspiring. The book's historical context is richly detailed, providing a deep understanding of the period. The reviewer finds the narrative engaging and the character development compelling, making it a notable read for those interested in historical fiction.

Quick quotes

Remarkably free from sloganeering and dogma.

Gerrard Winstanley is shown to be humanitarian, compassionate, inspiring and ...

Found it rather good.

Bristol Radical History · 2009-09-02

great 4.50

The book is considered a classic and is noted for its thorough reworking of historical events. It is praised for its accurate portrayal of Gerrard Winstanley and the Diggers.

This book is celebrated for its thorough and accurate portrayal of Gerrard Winstanley and the Diggers, a group that played a significant role in the English Revolution. The reviewer highlights the book's ability to rework historical events in a compelling manner, making it a classic in its own right. The narrative is rich with historical detail, providing a deep understanding of the period. The reviewer appreciates the author's ability to bring Winstanley's ideas to life, making the book both educational and engaging. The book's impact is further emphasized by its adaptation into a film, which is also praised for its faithfulness to the source material.

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The film is rightly judged to be a classic, and is based on the book Comrade Jacob, by David Caute (1961).

Great historical and radical novel about Gerrard Winstanley and the Diggers.

Later made into the film 'Winstanley' by ...

The New York Times · 1962-03-26

good 4.00

The book is noted for its vivid portrayal of Cromwellian England. It is praised for its engaging narrative and historical accuracy.

This book offers a vivid and engaging portrayal of Cromwellian England, a period often overlooked in historical fiction. The reviewer appreciates the author's ability to bring the era to life with rich historical detail and compelling characters. The narrative is both educational and entertaining, making it a notable read for those interested in the English Revolution. The reviewer finds the book's portrayal of Gerrard Winstanley and the Diggers particularly compelling, highlighting the author's ability to present complex historical figures in a relatable manner. The book's impact is further emphasized by its enduring relevance and the admiration it has garnered over the years.

Quick quotes

A novel about Cromwellian England.

FIA, FIA: A Novel of the South Pacific, by James Ramsey Ullman.

COMRADE JACOB, by David Caute (Pantheon Books, $3.75).

Appears in Lists

English Civil War Books