Ellroy Reads – Burr by Gore Vidal

Over the last decade or so there has been a resurgence of interest in the life and work of Alexander Hamilton. From the smash-hit musical to increasing academic attention to his role as one of the Founding Fathers, we seem to be in the grip of Hamiltonmania.

Therefore, I thought it was the perfect time for a close examination of Gore Vidal’s historical novel Burr, about the man who shot and killed Hamilton in a duel – Aaron Burr. Burr has traditionally been portrayed as a scoundrel and an adventurer, but Vidal turns this portrayal on its head and presents Burr as a reasonably honourable man surrounded by venal fools all looking to enrich themselves in the chaotic years of the Revolutionary War and the scramble for power afterward. Hamilton is portrayed as a knave, but Vidal reserves his full venom for George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. Reading this novel will change your perception of the American Revolution. Needless to say, it was a major influence on James Ellroy’s approach to historical fiction.

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While visiting New York for the Edgar Awards ceremony in May of last year, my wife and I made time for a pilgrimage to Hamilton Grange National Memorial – Alexander Hamilton’s house. It is remarkably well-preserved 18th century Federal-style building located in the heart of Harlem, and surrounded by modern towering apartment buildings. If you find yourself in New York, put aside some time for a visit.