The Mandarins by Simone de Beauvoir explores the lives of French left-wing intellectuals post-World War II, focusing on their political and personal struggles. Through alternating narratives of Henri Perron, a newspaper editor, and Anne Debreuilk, a psychiatrist, it delves into the intricate relationships and ideological rifts within their circle. Sensitive topics include adult relationships and political conflict.

Contemplative

Challenging

Bittersweet

Melancholic

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.5

5,971 ratings

80%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

Not a fan

Review Roundup

Simone de Beauvoir's The Mandarins is lauded for its deep exploration of existential themes and post-war intellectualism, with rich, complex character development. However, some readers find its dense philosophical discussions and lengthy narrative challenging. Overall, it's praised for its historical context and emotional depth, though not universally accessible.

Who Should Read The Mandarins?

Readers who enjoy existentialist literature, post-World War II European settings, and philosophical introspection will appreciate The Mandarins by Simone de Beauvoir. Fans of Jean-Paul Sartre's Nausea or Albert Camus’s The Stranger will find similar themes of existentialism and moral complexity.

4.5

5,971 ratings

80%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

Not a fan

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Book Details

Pages

608

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre

Classic Fiction

•

French Literature

•

Philosophy

Period