"Blindness" is a powerful novel by Nobel Prize-winning author José Saramago, exploring themes of extreme social breakdown and human resilience. The story begins when an inexplicable epidemic of sudden blindness strikes a city, leading to chaos as the afflicted population is quarantined. The narrative delves into the psychological and moral collapse of society when basic structures begin to fail.
The characters in the novel, primarily referred to by their roles rather than names, highlight the anonymity of suffering and shared humanity. As the story unfolds, their relationships evolve under the pressure of their dire circumstances, revealing both the best and worst of human nature. The group of blind individuals struggles to survive amid deteriorating conditions, showcasing the fundamental instincts of survival versus the moral dilemmas that arise.
Saramago's unique writing style, characterized by long sentences and minimal punctuation, immerses readers in the disorienting experience of blindness. The narrative serves as an allegory for the societal issues of the time, reflecting on ignorance and the fragility of civilization. Ultimately, "Blindness" prompts profound questions about human nature, empathy, and the societal bonds that hold communities together in times of crisis.
More »
Today Birthdays
1950 -
Arianna Huffington
1919 -
Iris Murdoch
1892 -
Walter Benjamin
1977 -
Lana Parrilla
1930 -
Jacques Derrida
1967 -
Adam Savage
1858 -
Emmeline Pankhurst
1906 -
Richard Armour
1967 -
Christopher Golden
1961 -
Forest Whitaker
1960 -
Willie Aames
1946 -
Linda Ronstadt
1934 -
Harrison Birtwistle
1981 -
Taylor Kinney
1952 -
Ileana Ros-Lehtinen
1969 -
Ian K. Smith
1976 -
Gabriel Iglesias
1974 -
Seth Gordon
1779 -
Clement Clarke Moore
1976 -
Diane Kruger
1952 -
James Balog
1946 -
Hassanal Bolkiah
1952 -
Celia Imrie
1925 -
D. A. Pennebaker
1963 -
Brigitte Nielsen
1966 -
Dan Lipinski
1958 -
Mac Thornberry