Blindness Book Summary - Blindness Book explained in key points

Blindness summary

Brief summary

Blindness by Jose Saramago is a thought-provoking novel that explores a society struck by a mysterious epidemic of blindness. It delves into the fragility of civilization and the depths of human resilience.

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    Blindness
    Summary of key ideas

    Chaotic and Chilling Tale of Blindness

    In Blindness by José Saramago, the author paints a chilling picture of a city struck by a mysterious epidemic of blindness. The story begins with an unnamed city, where people start inexplicably losing their sight. As the epidemic spreads, the government begins to panic and quarantine the infected in an old mental asylum, leaving them to fend for themselves.

    Our protagonist, a woman who seems to be immune to the blindness, pretends to be blind to stay with her husband. She becomes the only sighted person among the quarantined. She leads a small group of fellow internees, including a doctor, a boy, a girl, an old man with an eyepatch, a young boy, and a woman with dark glasses, to survive in the asylum. The group struggles to maintain order and hygiene as the number of blind people increases.

    Survival and Struggle

    The asylum soon becomes a microcosm of society, and as the government fails to provide any help, the situation inside the asylum turns chaotic. Food becomes scarce, and the blind internees are forced to rely on their wits to survive. They face the worst of human nature, including violence, rape, and even murder, as the struggle for power and resources intensifies.

    Despite the grim circumstances, the woman with sight remains a symbol of hope and resilience. Her ability to see, and her determination to help the others, becomes a guiding light for the group. She also forms a unique bond with the doctor, who takes on the role of the group's leader. Together, they fight to maintain some semblance of humanity in the face of overwhelming adversity.

    Escape and a Bleak World

    As conditions inside the asylum deteriorate, the group decides to escape. They manage to break out, only to find a city plunged into darkness. The world outside is equally bleak, with the blind leading the blind, and a society that has crumbled in the face of the epidemic. The group's journey becomes a metaphor for the human condition, highlighting our capacity for both cruelty and compassion.

    In the end, the woman with sight is the only one who regains her vision. But instead of bringing her solace, the sight of the desolate world outside adds a new layer of despair. She realizes that the blindness was not only a physical ailment but a metaphor for the spiritual blindness that had plagued society all along.

    A Harrowing Reflection on Humanity

    Blindness is a harrowing and thought-provoking exploration of humanity's darker aspects. It serves as a stark commentary on the fragility of civilization, the depths of human depravity, and the resilience of the human spirit. Saramago's unique writing style, with its lack of traditional punctuation and dialogue, adds to the disorienting and claustrophobic atmosphere of the story.

    In conclusion, Blindness is a powerful and unsettling novel that forces us to confront our deepest fears and contemplate the true nature of our humanity. It is a stark reminder that in the face of disaster, we are all, in our own way, blind.

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    What is Blindness about?

    Blindness is a captivating novel by Jose Saramago that explores the terrifying consequences of an unexplained epidemic of blindness that sweeps through an unnamed city. As society breaks down and the government resorts to extreme measures to contain the outbreak, a small group of characters must navigate the new world they find themselves in. Saramago's unique writing style and thought-provoking narrative make this a truly unforgettable read.

    Blindness Review

    Blindness (1995) portrays a society struck by a sudden epidemic of sightlessness, highlighting human behavior in extreme conditions. Here are three reasons why this book is a compelling read:
    • The exploration of human nature under crisis showcases both the best and worst aspects of society, prompting reflection on our own morality.
    • Through its gritty portrayal of survival and resilience, the book offers a poignant insight into the strength of the human spirit in times of adversity.
    • Its haunting narrative keeps readers captivated, provoking deep thoughts on societal structures and individual values, ensuring an engaging read that is far from mundane.

    Who should read Blindness?

    • Readers who enjoy thought-provoking and philosophical literature

    • Those interested in exploring the human condition and societal breakdown

    • Individuals who appreciate unique narrative styles and unconventional storytelling

    About the Author

    Jose Saramago was a renowned Portuguese author known for his unique writing style and powerful storytelling. Throughout his career, Saramago received numerous prestigious awards, including the Nobel Prize in Literature. Some of his notable works include Blindness, Death with Interruptions, and The Gospel According to Jesus Christ. Saramago's thought-provoking narratives often explore complex themes such as human nature, society, and the human condition.

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    Blindness FAQs 

    What is the main message of Blindness?

    Human resilience in the face of societal breakdown.

    How long does it take to read Blindness?

    Reading time varies, Blinkist summary available.

    Is Blindness a good book? Is it worth reading?

    Blindness is a thought-provoking novel offering insight into the human condition.

    Who is the author of Blindness?

    Jose Saramago.

    What to read after Blindness?

    If you're wondering what to read next after Blindness, here are some recommendations we suggest:
    • A Canticle for Leibowitz by Walter M. Miller
    • The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne
    • Little House in the Big Woods by Laura Ingalls Wilder
    • Wide Sargasso Sea by Jean Rhys, Judith L. Raiskin
    • Just After Sunset by Stephen King
    • Whereabouts by Jhumpa Lahiri
    • Hearts in Darkness by Laura Kaye
    • Every Heart a Doorway by Seanan McGuire
    • The Curious Case of Benjamin Button by F. Scott Fitzgerald, Nunzio DeFilippis
    • Side Jobs by Jim Butcher