The Man Without Qualities
The Man Without Qualities
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1930
Book Brief
752
Novel • Fiction
Vienna, Austria • 1910s
1930
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In Robert Musil’s unfinished three-volume modernist novel, The Man Without Qualities, protagonist Ulrich, a disillusioned mathematician in pre-World War I Austria, passively observes the moral and intellectual decay of society. The story centers around the chaotic Collateral Campaign to celebrate Emperor Franz Joseph’s reign. The narrative delves into existentialism, truth, and societal critique.
Contemplative
Mysterious
Informative
Challenging
Melancholic
Reviews & Readership
6,880 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Robert Musil's The Man Without Qualities is lauded for its intellectual depth, intricate narrative, and exploration of early 20th-century society. Critics admire its philosophical insights and complex characters but note the dense, sprawling prose may deter some readers. Despite its challenges, the novel is celebrated as a monumental literary achievement.
Who Should Read The Man Without Qualities?
Readers who appreciate The Man Without Qualities by Robert Musil are often drawn to complex character studies, philosophical musings, and social critiques reminiscent of Marcel Proust's In Search of Lost Time or Thomas Mann's The Magic Mountain. They enjoy exploring deep intellectual themes and richly detailed narratives.
6,880 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
752
Novel • Fiction
Vienna, Austria • 1910s
1930
Adult
18+ years
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