Life Before Man by Margaret Atwood is set in 1970s Ontario and follows Elizabeth and Nate, a couple in a failing marriage, and Lesje, Elizabeth’s coworker and Nate’s lover, as they navigate complex interpersonal relationships and moral beliefs. Told from their perspectives, the story delves into themes of alienation, existential questions, and the search for meaning in modern life. The novel includes themes of suicide and grief.

Margaret Atwood's Life Before Man weaves a complex narrative of relational dynamics, characterized by its psychological depth and sharp prose. Praised for its nuanced exploration of human emotions, the novel, however, may alienate some readers with its bleak tone and intricate structure. Noted for its introspective character studies, it offers a compelling yet somber reading experience.

A reader who would enjoy Life Before Man by Margaret Atwood appreciates intricate character studies and psychological drama. Fans of Atwood's The Handmaid's Tale or Richard Yates' Revolutionary Road would be drawn to its exploration of complex relationships, emotional turmoil, and existential themes.

Contemplative / Melancholic / Bittersweet / Mysterious / Dark

- Life Before Man was published in 1979, making it one of Margaret Atwood's earlier works, reflecting her growing influence in the Canadian literary scene at the time.
- Atwood used her personal experiences and the landscape of Toronto, where she spent a significant part of her life, as a backdrop for the novel, embedding real-life influence within its pages.
- The novel shares thematic elements of personal despair and the complexity of human relationships, which are recurrent motifs in Atwood’s body of work, further exemplified in her later novels such as The Handmaid’s Tale.

Plot Summary

Book Brief

Explore Life Before Man reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Book Brief Life Before Man

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore Life Before Man and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Life Before Man

Book Brief

Life Before Man

Super Short Summary

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Life Before Man?