In "A Place of Greater Safety," Hilary Mantel explores the political landscape during the French Revolution, focusing on a group of revolutionary leaders. The narrative delves into their ambitions, struggles, and the complex dynamics among them, illustrating how their ideologies clash and evolve over time. Mantel's rich characterizations and detailed settings provide a vivid backdrop to the historical events, capturing the tension and fervor of the era.
The term "peroration" highlights the skillful conclusion of an argument, leaving opponents speechless. By reaching a climactic point in her narrative, Mantel showcases the power of decisive rhetoric, where one side finds itself utterly outmaneuvered, unable to counter the compelling position laid out before them. This tactic not only emphasizes the intensity of political discourse but also mirrors the broader conflicts inherent in revolutionary movements.