48 pages • 1 hour read
The Secret Agent
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Book Brief
442
Novel • Fiction
London • 1880s
1907
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Secret Agent by Joseph Conrad follows Adolf Verloc, a secret agent in 1886 London, who is forced by his employer to orchestrate a bombing at the Greenwich Observatory to prove his worth. Verloc's involvement with anarchists and the police, coupled with using his wife's brother as a pawn, leads to disastrous and tragic consequences for his family. The plot incorporates elements of espionage, familial strife, and satire.
Dark
Mysterious
Unnerving
Suspenseful
Melancholic
Reviews & Readership
23,599 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Joseph Conrad's The Secret Agent is lauded for its intricate narrative and psychological depth, offering a compelling critique of anarchism and espionage. However, some readers find the pacing slow and the prose dense. While the novel's dark themes and complex characters are admired, these elements may not appeal to all audiences.
Who Should Read The Secret Agent?
Readers who relish delving into political intrigue and psychological depth will appreciate Joseph Conrad's The Secret Agent. Fans of Dostoevsky's Crime and Punishment or Orwell's 1984 will find the novel’s exploration of anarchism, espionage, and moral ambiguity compelling. Ideal for those who enjoy dense, thought-provoking narratives.
23,599 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
442
Novel • Fiction
London • 1880s
1907
Adult
18+ years
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