If you’re a fan of C.S. Forester’s Horatio Hornblower series, you know that our hero’s career is a major part of the story. But have you ever wondered exactly how Hornblower’s rank changed over the course of the series?
Thanks to a clever Reddit user, we can now visualize Hornblower’s rise through the ranks in a single chart.
## The Chart
The chart shows each book in the series, listed in order of publication, along with Hornblower’s rank at the time of the story. It’s fascinating to see how quickly Hornblower rises from a lowly midshipman to a confident captain.
## What the Chart Reveals
At a glance, the chart reveals a few interesting patterns. For example, Hornblower’s promotions come quickly in the early years, but slow down as he gains more experience. It’s also clear that Forester was careful to pace Hornblower’s career, often leaving gaps between stories to allow for off-page promotions.
## A Testament to Forester’s World-Building
The chart is also a testament to Forester’s meticulous world-building. The Hornblower series is famous for its attention to historical detail, and this chart shows just how carefully Forester plotted Hornblower’s career to match the realities of life in the British Navy during the Napoleonic Wars.
## Further Reading
If you’re new to the Hornblower series, this chart is a great starting point. And if you’re a longtime fan, it’s a fun way to revisit the stories and appreciate Forester’s masterful storytelling.