The Cunning Man

The Cunning Man follows Dr. Jonathan Hullah, a Toronto physician with an unconventional approach to medicine and diagnosis. When a journalist inquires about a priest's death at the altar, Hullah recounts his life story and medical career through a series of memories and observations. The narrative spans several decades of Toronto's history, exploring the interconnected worlds of medicine, religion, and culture through Hullah's experiences. His practice combines traditional medical knowledge with broader observations of human nature and behavior, setting him apart from his more conventional colleagues. The book incorporates events and characters from Toronto's past, including the fictionalized Church of St. Mary Magdalene and appearances by characters from Davies' other works. Through Hullah's observations, the narrative examines the relationships between patients and doctors, faith and science, tradition and progress. This novel explores themes of healing in its many forms - physical, spiritual, and psychological - while questioning the boundaries between orthodox and alternative approaches to medicine and life. It stands as Davies' final completed work and a culmination of his literary preoccupations with Canadian society, human nature, and the intersection of ancient wisdom with modern knowledge.

Readers call The Cunning Man thoughtful and contemplative, focused more on ideas and atmosphere than plot. They appreciate Davies' wit, erudite writing style, and deep exploration of medicine, religion, and art in mid-century Toronto. Many note the book rewards patient reading despite its slow pace. Readers liked: - Rich character development and interweaving storylines - Historical medical details and philosophical discussions - Dry humor and social commentary - Authentic portrayal of Toronto's culture Common criticisms: - Meandering narrative with limited action - Dense writing requires concentration - Too many tangential subplots - Some find the protagonist pretentious Ratings: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (3,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.3/5 (120+ ratings) LibraryThing: 4.1/5 (600+ ratings) One reader noted: "Like having a long conversation with a brilliant but longwinded friend." Another said: "Not for those seeking quick entertainment, but deeply satisfying for those willing to invest the time."

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🔹 The Cunning Man (1994) was Robertson Davies' final completed novel before his death in 1995, marking the end of a celebrated 40-year writing career. 🔹 Davies drew inspiration for the character of Dr. Hullah from his real-life friend, Dr. William Carrick, a Toronto physician known for his unconventional healing methods. 🔹 The book's portrayal of Toronto's medical community in the 1920s-1960s reflects actual historical tensions between traditional Western medicine and alternative healing practices. 🔹 The dramatic church death scene that opens the novel was inspired by a true incident at Toronto's St. Mary Magdalene's Church, where a priest collapsed during a service. 🔹 Davies incorporated elements of Paracelsus' medical philosophy throughout the novel - a 16th-century physician who believed in treating the whole person rather than just physical symptoms.