Plot Summary

Foucault's Pendulum

Umberto Eco
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Foucault's Pendulum

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1988

Book Brief

Umberto Eco

Foucault's Pendulum

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1988
Book Details
Pages

640

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Milan, Italy • 1980s

Publication Year

1988

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Foucault's Pendulum by Umberto Eco follows three vanity press employees, Belbo, Casaubon, and Diotallevi, who create a fictional conspiracy for amusement, blending historical myths and occult theories. As their satire, dubbed "The Plan," draws real conspiracists, Belbo is targeted by a secret society believing he holds the key to hidden Templar treasure, leading to deadly consequences.

Mysterious

Suspenseful

Challenging

Informative

Dark

Reviews & Readership

4.0

73,658 ratings

69%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Umberto Eco's Foucault's Pendulum fascinates with its intricate plot and intellectual depth, appealing to those who appreciate historical and philosophical narratives. Critics praise its rich tapestry of references and complex structure. However, some find it overly dense and challenging to follow. While celebrated for its ambition, it may not suit readers seeking straightforward storytelling.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Foucault's Pendulum?

Readers who appreciate dense, intellectually stimulating novels like Dan Brown’s The Da Vinci Code or Thomas Pynchon’s The Crying of Lot 49 would enjoy Umberto Eco’s Foucault’s Pendulum. This reader often delights in historical intricacies, secret societies, and complex narrative structures.

4.0

73,658 ratings

69%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

640

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Milan, Italy • 1980s

Publication Year

1988

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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