In "Wolf Hall," the narrative draws a parallel to King Ahab of Israel, whose reign was deeply flawed due to his submission to Jezebel's influence. Ahab, living in luxury, deviated from his faith, constructing a temple for pagan worship and surrounding himself with the corrupt priests of Baal. The prophet Elijah warned Ahab of dire consequences, foretelling his violent death, which ultimately unfolded as predicted when dogs licked his blood after he fell in battle. Ahab's downfall is emblematic of the inevitable fate that befalls those who stray from principle.

The story continues with the gruesome fate of Ahab’s heirs, all of whom died unceremoniously, their bodies left in the streets, signifying the complete collapse of his legacy. Jezebel, too, faced a brutal end, as her body was discarded after being thrown from a window, and wild dogs ravaged it. This stark imagery serves to illustrate the harsh reality of hubris and moral decay, reinforcing the themes of power and retribution within the historical context of the narrative.