Monday, June 22, 2009

Rumpole of Old Bailey


Sadly, there will be no more Rumpoles now that John Mortimer has passed away. He lived to a ripe old age, however, and there was the joy of finding a new Rumpole every few years in the shop or library.

Rumpole is a 'great defender', he never prosecutes and believes that even crooks should get a chance. However, in one story, he defends a person whom he later discovers is a murderer and is most disconcerted.

More than just a defence barrister, Rumpole is a complete character, with his habit of smoking small cigars, calling Hilda his wife "she who must be obeyed", drinking Pommeroy's Vin Ordinaire on legal aid cheques. It is a wonder that Hilda doesn't leave him, with all the snide references he makes of her. Several false retirements later, Rumpole continues to appear at Equity Court and make appearances on behalf of the Timson family before Judge Bullingham, or the Mad Bull.

Rumpole appears to always get at the truth of a case, mainly because he is an excellent judge of character and understands human foibles. Whether it is a real crime or merely a etiquette breach, he predictably advocates for the underdog.

First written in the early 80's, Rumpole has moved accordingly with the times. The later novels make sly commentary on political correctness gone mad, anti-social behaviour orders, modernisation and corporatisation of barrister offices. John Mortimer's appeal lies more in his wit and the depth of his characters than the crime itself. Rumpole is a great entertaining read.

No comments:

Post a Comment