Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell is a novel by Susanna Clarke that takes place in an alternate version of 19th century England where magic is real but has been lost for centuries. The story follows two magicians, the reclusive Mr Norrell and the charismatic Jonathan Strange, as they attempt to bring magic back to England.
Mr Norrell is a cautious and scholarly magician who believes in keeping magic under strict control and only using it for practical purposes. He becomes the first magician in centuries to reveal his abilities to the public and is soon hailed as a hero. However, his arrogance and desire for power lead him down a dark path.
Jonathan Strange, on the other hand, is a natural talent who quickly surpasses Mr Norrell in skill and popularity. He is more adventurous and willing to take risks with his magic, leading to conflicts between the two magicians. As they delve deeper into the world of magic, they uncover dark secrets and ancient powers that threaten to consume them both.
As the story unfolds, Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell must confront their own flaws and fears in order to save England from a supernatural threat. The novel explores themes of power, ambition, and the consequences of meddling with forces beyond human understanding.