The Time Of The Angels : Book Review

"The Time of the Angels" by Iris Murdoch is a captivating novel that explores thought-provoking themes such as love, morality, and the nature of reality. The story follows two brothers, Carel Fisher and Marcus Fisher, who are philosophy professors. As the plot unfolds, they find themselves tangled in a complex web of relationships and discover that their actions have far-reaching consequences.

One of the central themes of the book is the nature of love, particularly the distinction between genuine love and mere desire. Carel struggles with conflicting emotions as he grapples with his love for his wife and his attraction to a younger woman. This internal conflict prompts him to question the meaning and worth of his relationships. Murdoch skillfully delves into the complexities of human emotions and motivations, leaving readers contemplating the true nature of love and its potential for both destruction and redemption.

Morality is another central theme explored in the novel. The characters wrestle with moral dilemmas, contemplating what is right and wrong, and the repercussions of their decisions. Murdoch challenges conventional notions of morality, presenting a more nuanced and multifaceted perspective. She highlights the gray areas and complexities inherent in ethical decision-making, prompting readers to ponder the notions of personal responsibility and the ripple effects of our choices on the lives of others.

An intriguing aspect of the book is its exploration of the nature of reality. The title, "The Time of the Angels," alludes to the existence of angels and their potential impact on human affairs. This mystical element allows Murdoch to delve into metaphysics and challenge preconceived notions of reality. Readers are left questioning the extent to which the story is rooted in mundane experiences and how much is influenced by unseen forces.

In conclusion, "The Time of the Angels" is a thought-provoking and philosophical novel that navigates the intricacies of love, morality, and the nature of reality. Iris Murdoch's adept storytelling and deep exploration of these themes create an engrossing read that inspires readers to reflect on the complexities of human relationships and the power of our choices.

What are readers saying?

The novel "The Time of the Angels" by Iris Murdoch has garnered a mix of reactions from readers. Some individuals were captivated by the intricate storyline and the deep development of the characters, praising Murdoch's writing style and her ability to explore complex themes. Conversely, other readers found the book perplexing and difficult to follow, struggling to connect with both the characters and the overall narrative.

Many reviewers appreciated Murdoch's philosophical exploration of morality and the nature of good and evil. They were engrossed by the intellectual debates between the characters and found them thought-provoking and stimulating. The manner in which the author seamlessly incorporated these intricate ideas into the story was highly admired, with some readers describing the book as a "philosophical masterpiece."

Furthermore, the character development in "The Time of the Angels" received considerable praise from several reviewers. They felt that the characters were well-rounded and multi-dimensional, realistically portraying their flaws and virtues. Some readers were particularly fascinated by the gradual revelation of the characters' motives and intentions throughout the narrative.

However, not all readers were satisfied with the book. Some found the plot overly convoluted and the narrative structure confusing, which made it challenging to fully grasp the story. These readers expressed frustration with the multitude of characters and their varied perspectives, resulting in a disjointed reading experience.

Moreover, a few reviewers found it difficult to emotionally connect with the characters. They felt that the characters lacked depth and relatability, which hindered their ability to fully invest in their journeys. These readers expressed a desire for more engaging and empathetic characters to enhance their reading experience.

TimeOfTheAngels BookRecommendation MustRead