The White Disease

Summary

«The White Disease» is a dystopian play by Karel Čapek, written in 1937. The plot centers around an epidemic of a deadly illness known as the «white disease», which affects people over the age of
1.The disease causes white spots on the skin and inevitably leads to death. The main character, Dr. Galen, discovers a cure for this disease but refuses to give it to the government, demanding an end to all wars first. Meanwhile, a militaristic dictatorship led by the Marshal, who seeks world domination, is gaining strength in the country. The conflict between humanism and militarism reaches a climax when Dr. Galen tries to deliver his cure to the people but is killed in a crowd before he can share the formula. The play raises important questions about morality, responsibility, and human greed.

Main Ideas

• Critique of militarism and fascism
• Ethical dilemmas in medicine
• Social inequality and its consequences
• Moral responsibility of scientists and doctors
• Conflict between humanism and political power

Historical Context and Significance

«The White Disease» by Karel Čapek, written in 1937, is a powerful anti-fascist work that warns of the consequences of totalitarianism and militarism. The plot centers around an epidemic of a deadly disease affecting people over 45 and one doctor's fight for peace and humanism. The book reflects the anxieties and fears leading up to World War II, criticizing the callousness and cruelty of dictators. Its influence on culture lies in its sharp social and political critique, as well as its humanistic message, which remains relevant in today's world.

Main Characters and Their Development

• Dr. Galen - the main character, a doctor who discovers a cure for the deadly disease known as the «White Disease». He seeks to use his discovery to achieve peace and justice, refusing to treat the wealthy and powerful until they stop wars and help the poor.
• Marshal - a dictator leading his country to war. He symbolizes militarism and nationalism. Ultimately, he is forced to turn to Dr. Galen for treatment, but his pride and cruelty lead to tragic consequences.
• Baron Krüg - an industrialist who profits from war. He represents greed and indifference to human suffering. Eventually, he also falls victim to the «White Disease» and is forced to reconsider his views.
• Professor Sigelius - a colleague of Dr. Galen who is skeptical of his methods and discoveries. His character highlights the conflict between traditional medicine and new, radical approaches.
• Marshal's Daughter - she plays an important role in the plot's development, as her love and concern for her father lead the Marshal to reconsider his views on war and violence.

Style and Technique

In «The White Disease», Karel Čapek employs a dramatic style that combines elements of satire and tragedy. The language of the work is rich and expressive, with a focus on dialogues that reveal the characters and their internal conflicts. Literary devices include irony, hyperbole, and allegory, allowing the author to critically examine the social and political issues of his time. The narrative structure is linear, with a clear development of the plot, climax, and resolution. Čapek masterfully uses contrasts between characters and situations to highlight the moral and ethical dilemmas facing society.

Interesting Facts

• The book describes a fictional disease that affects only people over 45 and causes white spots on the skin, eventually leading to death.
• The main character, Dr. Galen, discovers a cure for this disease but refuses to give it to the government until world peace is achieved.
• The work is an anti-war satire and criticizes militarism and dictatorship.
• The book was written during the rise of fascism in Europe and reflects the author's concerns about the political situation.
• The work raises questions of morality, ethics, and the responsibility of scientists to society.
• The book has been adapted for theater and film, demonstrating its significant influence and relevance.

Book Review

«The White Disease» by Karel Čapek is a powerful dystopia that explores themes of morality, power, and human nature. Critics note that Čapek masterfully uses the metaphor of an incurable disease to show how fear and greed can destroy society. The main character, Dr. Galen, embodies humanism and moral resilience, standing in contrast to soulless and corrupt leaders. The book also examines the responsibility of scientists and doctors to society. Čapek skillfully blends elements of science fiction and social satire, creating a work that remains relevant today. Critics emphasize that «The White Disease» is not only a warning of potential dangers but also a call for humanity and compassion.