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42 pages 1 hour read

The Death of Artemio Cruz

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1962

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Book Brief

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Carlos Fuentes, Transl. Alfred J. MacAdam

The Death of Artemio Cruz

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1962
Book Details
Pages

307

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Mexico • 20th Century

Theme
Publication Year

1962

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

1020L

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Super Short Summary

Set against the Mexican Revolution, The Death of Artemio Cruz by Carlos Fuentes explores the life of Artemio Cruz, an orphaned peasant who ascends from a revolutionary soldier to a corrupt and wealthy politician, reflecting on his life from his deathbed. The novel is structurally complex, with non-linear chapters and varied narrative voices, capturing Cruz's internal and external struggles. The book discusses war and death.

Mysterious

Dark

Melancholic

Contemplative

Bittersweet

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Carlos Fuentes' The Death of Artemio Cruz, translated by Alfred J. MacAdam, is praised for its innovative narrative structure and rich, evocative language. However, some find the shifting perspectives disorienting. The translation captures the novel's essence, though it challenges readers unfamiliar with Mexican history. Overall, a compelling but demanding read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Death of Artemio Cruz?

Readers who appreciate The Death of Artemio Cruz by Carlos Fuentes are typically intrigued by complex narratives and historical contexts. Comparable to García Márquez's One Hundred Years of Solitude and Vargas Llosa's The Feast of the Goat, this novel will fascinate those interested in Latin American history, political intrigue, and rich, multifaceted characters.

Character List

Artemio Cruz

A powerful and influential figure in politics and business, whose life reflects the contradictions and moral struggles experienced in post-revolution Mexico. His narrative reveals both his past as a revolutionary and the effects of his personal ambitions.

Cruz’s wife, who represents the traditional and often loveless marriages among the Mexican aristocracy. Her relationship with Cruz remains strained and distant throughout their long marriage.

A young woman from northern Mexico, who shares a brief, intense romance with Cruz during the Mexican Revolution. Her memory remains significant in Cruz’s life.

Cruz's son, who is depicted as idealistic and morally driven. He contrasts with his father due to his commitment to fight in the Spanish Civil War.

The son of a nobleman and a foil to Cruz, who values the initial ideals of the revolution over personal gain. His interactions with Cruz in prison significantly influence the course of the story.

A wealthy landowner and father of Catalina and Gonzalo, who is skeptical of Cruz but allows his marriage to Catalina. His character serves as a foil to Cruz later in life.

The daughter of Catalina and Cruz, who is characterized by her strained relationship with her father and her interest in his wealth. Her interactions with Cruz highlight familial tensions.

Book Details
Pages

307

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Mexico • 20th Century

Theme
Publication Year

1962

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

1020L

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