In "Bring Up the Bodies" by Hilary Mantel, the imagery of Anne ascending marble steps to Heaven represents her journey towards redemption and legacy. The description suggests a celestial elevation, where her positive actions throughout life are symbolized as jewels adorning her. These jewels, reminiscent of her good deeds, not only embellish her but also serve to weigh her down, indicating that while her virtues may elevate her spirit, they also come with the burdens of her past. This duality reflects the complexities of Anne's character, showcasing how her honorable intentions are intertwined with the expectations and consequences of her actions. The metaphor emphasizes the notion that one's deeds, though they can lead to a spiritual ascent, also carry the weight of responsibility and judgment in the eyes of society and history. Through this portrayal, Mantel captures the tension between aspiration and reality as Anne seeks to navigate the moral landscape of her time.

In "Bring Up the Bodies" by Hilary Mantel, the imagery of Anne ascending marble steps to Heaven represents her journey towards redemption and legacy. The description suggests a celestial elevation, where her positive actions throughout life are symbolized as jewels adorning her. These jewels, reminiscent of her good deeds, not only embellish her but also serve to weigh her down, indicating that while her virtues may elevate her spirit, they also come with the burdens of her past.

This duality reflects the complexities of Anne's character, showcasing how her honorable intentions are intertwined with the expectations and consequences of her actions. The metaphor emphasizes the notion that one's deeds, though they can lead to a spiritual ascent, also carry the weight of responsibility and judgment in the eyes of society and history. Through this portrayal, Mantel captures the tension between aspiration and reality as Anne seeks to navigate the moral landscape of her time.