Plot Summary

Rhinoceros

Eugène Ionesco
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Rhinoceros

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1959

Book Brief

Eugène Ionesco

Rhinoceros

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1959
Book Details
Pages

138

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

Provincial town, France • 1950s

Publication Year

1959

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In Eugène Ionesco's play Rhinoceros, residents of a small French village begin transforming into rhinoceroses, leaving Bérenger as one of the few who resist. Though initially indifferent, Bérenger evolves from apathy to defiance against mindless conformity, exploring themes of individuality, morality, and personal responsibility within the absurd scenario. Includes scenes of animal harm.

Mysterious

Unnerving

Challenging

Dark

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Rhinoceros by Eugène Ionesco has been acclaimed for its compelling examination of conformity and social change, using absurdity to highlight the pitfalls of herd mentality. Critics laud its sharp wit and innovative narrative style. However, some find its surreal elements challenging and its themes overly didactic. Overall, it offers a thought-provoking theatrical experience.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Rhinoceros?

Readers who enjoy Rhinoceros by Eugène Ionesco often appreciate absurdist and existential theatre. They are likely fans of works like Samuel Beckett's Waiting for Godot and Jean-Paul Sartre's No Exit. These readers are interested in exploring themes of conformity, identity, and the absurdity of human existence.

Book Details
Pages

138

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

Provincial town, France • 1950s

Publication Year

1959

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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