The Elephant's Journey
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Historical Context and Significance
The novel «The Elephant's Journey» by José Saramago is based on a real historical event—the journey of an elephant named Solomon from Lisbon to Vienna in the 16th century. This work explores themes of human nature, absurdity, and bureaucracy, using the metaphor of a journey as a means of understanding the world and oneself. The book emphasizes the importance of seemingly insignificant events in history and their impact on human destinies. Its cultural influence is evident as Saramago, through his unique narrative style, reminds readers of the significance of historical details and their interpretation. The novel also raises questions about power, religion, and human folly, making it relevant in a contemporary context.
Date of publication: 10 February 2025
———The Elephant's Journey
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Genre: Historical novel