Setting
The novel unfurls its tale in the vibrant heart of Pompeii, a bustling harbor town nestled at the base of the awe-inspiring Mount Vesuvius in southern Italy. This formidable volcano, known for its silent menace, looms over the narrative until it bursts forth in a spectacular eruption in the book's climactic chapters. Yet, it is not merely the striking scenery of the city that captivates the reader; rather, it is the rich tapestry of everyday life in this small port town within the vast and powerful Roman Empire that truly enchants.
The reader is swept into the sensory tapestry of Pompeiian life, amidst the bustling insulae (apartment houses) and bustling fora (town squares), where the sights and sounds of this ancient world come alive. Yarbro skillfully weaves the grand historical and political backdrop of her novel, gently guiding the reader without overwhelming. This backdrop includes familiar echoes from history classes—tales of civil unrest and the tumultuous succession of Emperors during the first century A.D.
Through her deft storytelling, Yarbro entwines the political realities with the geographical, crafting a metaphor where the volcanic threat mirrors the Empire's own instability. The looming danger of Vesuvius becomes an allegory for the governmental turbulence of the era. In her narrative, Yarbro deftly interlaces Latin terminology and references to Roman laws and customs, infusing her novel with the unique spirit of the era.
Literary Qualities
The essence of history captivates Yarbro's imagination. Though Locadio's Apprentice is set against a historical backdrop, it shies away from the sweeping panoramas typical of the genre, such as Edward Bulwer-Lytton's renowned The Last Days of Pompeii, which graced bookshelves in 1834 and dazzled audiences on screen a century later. Yarbro invites us not to view ancient history as a distant refuge or an exhibit to be studied. She portrays it as a living tapestry of emotions, actions, and experiences from an era long past. In Yarbro's eyes, history isn't woven from monumental figures or grandiose events, despite her nod to Rome's political turmoil. Instead, it's the myriad of ordinary lives and everyday moments that form the essence of the past—a sentiment that echoes through the ages to our present day. This perspective is embodied in her choice of characters, who, devoid of wealth or influence, nonetheless breathe life into her narrative.
Yarbro's writing mirrors the simplicity and authenticity of her characters and historical viewpoint. As she remarked in an interview with Contemporary Authors, "The reader should not be aware of how the words are on the page, or with what pyrotechnics the language is thrown around. Language is not an end in itself, but a means." Her prose flows with clarity, only occasionally challenged by the introduction of Latin terminology—a nod to the novel's ancient Roman setting. Understanding the potential for confusion, Yarbro kindly provides a glossary of Latin terms at the book's end. Additionally, she offers a Roman medicine glossary, which proves invaluable for readers eager to test their knowledge or deduction skills. As symptoms, diseases, and treatments appear, they unfold in the context of ancient medical practices, prompting readers to engage in a delightful mental puzzle—translating these into modern equivalents. This element of the novel enriches the reading experience, blending education with entertainment, as Yarbro thoughtfully contrasts the medical wisdom of Rome with contemporary insights.
For Further Reference
Cooper, Ilene. "Locadio's Apprentice." Booklist 81 (December 15, 1984): 594. While highlighting the novel's modest storyline, Cooper praises its skillful portrayals of characters. However, she rightly notes that the depiction of slavery is "shown in an unfortunately benign manner."
Elliot, Jeffrey. "Interview: Chelsea Quinn Yarbro." Fantasy Newsletter 4,12 (December 1981): 10-15, 30. Though this conversation unfolded before Yarbro ventured into young adult literature, it remains pivotal for unveiling her insights on writing, history, and character development.
Etienne, Robert. Pompeii: The Day a City Died. Translated by Caroline Palmer. New York: Harry N. Abrams, 1992. This visually captivating and informative tome vividly paints the story of Pompeii, both its ancient life and remnants, through a tapestry of archaeological, artistic, and documentary lenses. It is a must-read for those curious about Enecus's city and the grand Empire it belonged to.
Lieberman, Jan, and Marilyn Kercher. "Books for Adolescents." Journal of Reading 29 (November 1985): 174-179. This review delves into Locadio's Apprentice and Four Horses for Tishtry, highlighting them as standout works of historical fiction for young readers because of their dynamic energy, meticulous detail, and vibrant portrayal of bygone eras. The novels are expertly summarized and placed within their broader historical context.
Wilms, Denise M. "Four Horses for Tishtry." Booklist 81 (June 15, 1985): 1463-1464. This succinct review notes Yarbro's evolution as a young adult author, applauding the novel's enthralling combination of a well-crafted plot, believable characters, and authentic historical backdrop. It also acknowledges the author's enhanced realism in depicting the subject of slavery.
Wiloch, Thomas. "Chelsea Quinn Yarbro." In Contemporary Authors. New Revision Series. Vol. 25. Detroit: Gale Research, 1989: 499-502. This entry uncovers the expansive and prolific nature of Yarbro's creative works. Although it centers on her adult literature, it includes a succinct interview and excerpts from seldom-seen sources like the Fantasy Newsletter and Science Fiction Review, offering readers a glimpse into otherwise inaccessible content.
