The Dean's December

Brief Overview

In the novel "The Dean's December," Saul Bellow immerses the reader in the atmosphere of a wintry Chicago and a cold, bleak Bucharest. The main character, Albert Corde, a dean and writer, travels to Romania to be with his dying mother-in-law. During this time, he encounters cultural and political contrasts that compel him to rethink his own beliefs and views on life. Meanwhile, in Chicago, a story of injustice and social inequality unfolds, also demanding his attention. Bellow masterfully intertwines the protagonist's personal experiences with global issues, creating a profound reflection on human nature and society.