José Saramago retells the life of Jesus, beginning with Joseph, who overhears soldiers talking about a coming massacre of infants in Bethlehem and does not warn the others. Haunted by guilt, Joseph is later crucified, and his son Jesus grows up carrying that burden. After a time with Mary Magdalene, and with a shepherd who is the Devil in disguise, Jesus meets God and learns that his death will serve a larger design for power.
It is for readers who like literary fiction with a skeptical streak and who enjoy long sentences. It suits those open to hearing a familiar religious story questioned.
Deep, contemplative, open-ended and thought-provoking; a moderate read.
Best for readers like The Literary Connoisseur. Which reader are you?
- Published
- 1991
- Language
- EN
