The Human Comedy
The Human Comedy
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1943
Book Brief
192
Novel • Fiction
California • 1940s
1943
Adult
12+ years
Super Short Summary
The Human Comedy by William Saroyan follows fourteen-year-old Homer Macauley, a telegraph messenger in World War II-era Ithaca, California, as he discovers the complexities of the human condition through his interactions with various townspeople and the messages of loss he must deliver. Through episodic events and guided by characters that reflect human virtues and flaws, Homer matures and learns about compassion, loneliness, and faith.
Heartwarming
Nostalgic
Contemplative
Emotional
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
6,570 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
William Saroyan's The Human Comedy is lauded for its heartfelt depiction of small-town life during World War II. Readers appreciate the novel's evocative prose and warm, nostalgic tone. Some critics, however, find the plot overly sentimental and simplistic. Overall, its charm and strong emotional impact resonate well, offering a poignant reflection on human resilience.
Who Should Read The Human Comedy?
Ideal for readers who cherish heartfelt WWII era tales, The Human Comedy by William Saroyan appeals to fans of John Steinbeck's The Grapes of Wrath and Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird. The novel's themes of community, innocence, and resilience will resonate with those drawn to compassionate, character-driven narratives.
6,570 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Human Comedy was written by William Saroyan in 15 days, showcasing his remarkable ability to swiftly create emotional and meaningful narratives.
In 1943, Saroyan originally wrote a screenplay titled The Human Comedy for MGM, but disagreements led him to adapt it into a novel, which was published before the film's release.
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The fictional town of Ithaca, California, in The Human Comedy is widely believed to be based on Saroyan's hometown of Fresno, California, reflecting his personal connection to the setting.
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192
Novel • Fiction
California • 1940s
1943
Adult
12+ years
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