53 pages • 1 hour read
A Fable
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Book Brief
384
Novel • Fiction
France • 1910s
1955
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
A Fable, set during World War I, follows an unplanned truce orchestrated by 3,000 French soldiers, led by a Jesus-like corporal, leading to a temporary cessation of fighting along the western front. The truce angers military leaders, who arrest the 13 orchestrators. The corporal's identity and fate mirror the story of Jesus Christ. The novel includes depictions of graphic violence and suicide.
Mysterious
Contemplative
Dark
Melancholic
Challenging
Reviews & Readership
4,334 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
A Fable by William Faulkner presents a challenging yet rewarding read that intertwines the complexities of World War I with heavy allegorical themes. Critics praise its ambitious scope and masterful prose, reflecting Faulkner's profound narrative ability. However, some find the intricate structure overly dense and the pacing uneven. Overall, it stands as a profound, if occasionally taxing, literary work.
Who Should Read A Fable?
A reader who would enjoy A Fable by William Faulkner is likely to appreciate complex narratives and themes exploring moral and philosophical issues. Fans of Hemingway's For Whom the Bell Tolls and Orwell's Nineteen Eighty-Four would find Faulkner's intricate storytelling and symbolic depth captivating.
4,334 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Marshal
The Marshal
As the head of the French Army, he represents traditional military viewpoints, with his actions and decisions reflecting his commitment to maintaining the existing order during World War I.
The Runner
The Runner
A character who voluntarily demotes himself from officer to enlisted man, embodying empathy and solidarity with the soldiers while facing significant personal cost.
Marthe
Marthe
One of the few prominent female figures; a resilient woman who navigates the harsh realities of war while advocating for her family amidst a male-dominated society.
384
Novel • Fiction
France • 1910s
1955
Adult
18+ years
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