Couples

Historical Context and Significance

John Updike's novel «Couples», published in 1968, became a significant event in literature due to its candid depiction of middle-class life in 1960s America. The book explores themes of marital infidelity, sexual freedom, and moral dilemmas faced by the residents of the fictional town of Tarbox in New England. Updike skillfully conveys the atmosphere of a time when traditional values were being questioned and society was undergoing cultural changes. «Couples» sparked widespread resonance and controversy due to its frankness and became a symbol of the sexual revolution era. The novel influenced subsequent literature by paving the way for more open discussions of intimate aspects of life and relationships in fiction.