57 pages • 1 hour read
A Passage to India
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Book Brief
368
Novel • Fiction
India • 1920s
1924
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In A Passage to India, Dr. Aziz befriends Englishwoman Mrs. Moore and schoolteacher Mr. Fielding in the Indian city of Chandrapore. During a trip to the Marabar Caves, Aziz is falsely accused of assaulting Adela Quested, leading to a trial that heightens racial tensions. Adela eventually retracts her accusation, vindicating Aziz, but the ordeal strains his friendships and highlights the cultural divide. Themes of colonialism, race, and friendship permeate the narrative. The book includes descriptions of trauma experienced by a character.
Mysterious
Contemplative
Melancholic
Emotional
Challenging
Reviews & Readership
86,342 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
E. M. Forster's A Passage to India is praised for its compelling exploration of British colonialism and cultural clash in India. Reviewers admire Forster's rich characterization and evocative descriptions. However, some critique its pacing and occasional stereotypes. Overall, it is considered a thought-provoking and significant literary work.
Who Should Read A Passage to India?
Readers who appreciate A Passage to India by E. M. Forster are often drawn to complex narratives that explore cultural clash and colonialism in early 20th-century India. They are likely admirers of works like Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad and Kim by Rudyard Kipling, enjoying profound political and social commentary coupled with rich atmospheric settings.
86,342 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Mr. Fielding
Mr. Fielding
An English principal at the Government College in Chandrapore who befriends Dr. Aziz and stands apart from his countrymen because of his respect for Indians.
Adela Quested
Adela Quested
A young Englishwoman visiting India with Mrs. Moore, who seeks to understand the country and grapples with personal realizations during her stay.
Mrs. Moore
Mrs. Moore
An Englishwoman and mother figure, whose spiritual insights impact her companions and linger even after her departure from the physical setting.
Godbole
Godbole
A deeply spiritual Hindu who serves as a moral and religious authority, offering insights and embodying cultural and spiritual harmony.
368
Novel • Fiction
India • 1920s
1924
Adult
18+ years
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