A History of the World in 10½ Chapters

Summary

«A History of the World in 10½ Chapters» by Julian Barnes is a collection of ten stories and one essay-like interlude, all connected by the theme of perception and interpretation of history. The book begins with a retelling of the biblical story of Noah's Ark from the perspective of a woodworm aboard the vessel. It then moves through various stories spanning a wide range of times and locations, including a hostage situation on a cruise ship, a trial of an artist who paints disaster scenes, and an essay on love and survival. Barnes explores how history and myths intertwine, how people interpret and reinterpret the past, and how personal and collective memories shape our understanding of the world.