50 pages • 1 hour read
A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
288
Novel • Fiction
Britain • Future
2019
Adult
18+ years
The Wall by John Lanchester follows Joseph Kavanagh, a young Defender tasked with protecting the United Kingdom's Wall built to stave off climate refugees, called Others, in a dystopian future ravaged by severe climate change. As Joseph navigates the harsh life on the Wall, he grapples with his role, survivor guilt, and societal inequities, ultimately finding companionship and reflecting on the blurred lines between Defenders and Others. Violence and severe weather events are depicted.
Mysterious
Dark
Unnerving
Suspenseful
Contemplative
23,406 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
John Lanchester's The Wall receives mixed reviews. Critics praise its gripping dystopian premise and stark warnings on climate change and xenophobia. However, some find its characters underdeveloped and narrative pacing uneven. The novel effectively provokes thought on contemporary issues but may leave some readers wanting deeper character exploration.
Readers who enjoy dystopian narratives with social commentary will be captivated by John Lanchester's The Wall. Fans of George Orwell's 1984 and Margaret Atwood's The Handmaid's Tale will appreciate its exploration of isolation and societal upheaval. This book delves into contemporary anxieties through a compelling, speculative lens.
23,406 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Captain
An authoritative figure on the Wall, the Captain initially serves as a mentor to Joseph, providing strict guidance for survival. He is a formidable and stoic presence who helps Joseph navigate the harsh realities of life as a Defender.
The Hermit
A reclusive and resourceful man who lives in isolation in an energy installation. He aids Joseph and Hifa by sharing his resources and survival story through written notes.
Hifa
Joseph’s romantic interest, a pragmatic woman with dreams of making life bearable on the Wall by encouraging procreation. She is known for her skilled work and use of nets in their floating community.
Hughes
A fellow Defender who is a thoughtful and intellectual contrast to Joseph with a shared resemblance. He balances living in the present with planning for the future and is known for his survival skills during attacks.
James, the Baby Politician
An ambitious young politician who initially draws contempt from Joseph for his lack of authenticity. Joseph seeks to align with him as a means to achieve his own aspirations of power and privilege.
Mary
The cook for Joseph’s company, known for her friendly disposition towards her peers and dream of opening a restaurant. Her role is largely defined by her duties in the kitchen.
The Olds
Joseph’s term for his parents' generation, symbolizing those who avoided confronting climate change seriously. They are characterized by their apologies and ineffective responses that fail to address societal issues.
Sergeant/Sarge
A hardened Defender and mentor to Joseph who embodies the no-nonsense style of leadership. He guides new recruits with experience from his previous tours on the Wall.
288
Novel • Fiction
Britain • Future
2019
Adult
18+ years
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.