Pat began her illustrated talk by sketching in something
of the history of Hall Caine, the eminent Victorian novelist forever associated
with the Isle of Man and his home, Greeba Castle. She expressed a feeling of
nervousness at seeing Ula Corkill, an authority on Hall Caine and Frances
Coakley, expert in Manx heritage both in the audience. Of course, she had
nothing to fear. Her scholarly research in so many areas and previous talks to
the trust make her an established figure and an accomplished
speaker.
Sir Thomas Henry Hall Caine CH, KBE to give him his full
title was born in Cheshire. His father, born in Ramsey left the Island, as so
many have, in search of work and found employment as a fitter in Liverpool
docks. Hall Caine, as he preferred to be known, was educated at a British
National School in Liverpool until he was fourteen. They must have given him a
splendid education in English as he excelled as a writer. However, he started
work in Liverpool with an architect and then became an architect/surveyor. He
was set on a literary career and his determination paid off.
Most people, one way or another, can access the inter
net. Wikipaedia sets out Hall Caine’s biography in a clear but mind-boggling
way. His contacts with great authors and other eminent figures seemed to explode
in no time. Do have a look.
Caine’s first novel, The Deemster, was a success. He
frequently visited the Island and this seems to have been a great influence on
his life and writing. He came to live in Greeba Castle and such was his fame
from his published works and friendships with Victorian greats such as Rosetti,
crowds would gather outside his home in the hopes of seeing him.
Pat’s attention was drawn to the novel, Woman of
Knockaloe that Hall Caine said came to him in a dream. It centres on the love
that developed between a Manx girl called Mona and a German Knockaloe internee.
The development of the romance, the way it affected people still seething with
hatred of the Germans for the war and how true love overcame people’s feelings
is a remarkable tale. It was seen as an allegory for the necessity of
re-establishing good relations between different nations. This was a huge
success and was made into a silent film. We were lucky enough to view a clip. Of
course, when the book was written and the film made, there was no suggestion
that the Germans would launch a second world war with all its accompanying
horrors.
On much the same theme, our next meeting at 7.30 on
Wednesday, 20th November in the Centenary Centre features Ian Cannell
CBE speaking on Remembrance Travels – remembrance with an international
dimension. Tickets for the Christmas Party at the Golf Club will be on sale. A
wonderful band is included. To be on the safe side, ring Corrie Wooding on
843502.
