Recommended Reading Order for Saramago’s Novels

Reading a collection of books by the renowned Portuguese author Jorge Amado Saramago can be an enriching and intellectually stimulating experience. To make the most of this journey, understanding the recommended reading order can be quite beneficial. This guide will help you navigate through Saramago’s works, starting from his religious critique novels and moving towards his more philosophical and thought-provoking books. Below is the recommended reading order:

Reading Order Introduction

Saramago's novels often delve into profound and complex themes. By starting with his religious critique books and then moving on to those with a more philosophical perspective, readers can gain a deeper appreciation for the evolution of his literary style and thematic depth. This approach not only enhances understanding but also provides a smoother transition through his diverse and remarkable writings.

Step 1: Starting with Religious Critique

The Gospel According to Jesus Christ is a fascinating reinterpretation of the life of Jesus Christ, blending historical facts with fictional storytelling. This novel challenges traditional religious narratives and provokes thought on the nature of faith. Baltasar and Blimunda follows this religious critique with a unique mix of science and magic, tracing the lives of a magical conjurer and a chemist collaborating to achieve an impossible invention in a small Portuguese village during the austerity regime years. Both books lay a foundation for readers to explore Saramago's intriguing mix of realism and fantasy, often critiquing societal and political norms through religious and mythological lenses.

Step 2: Transition to Philosophical Novels

Blindness explores the dire consequences of a national epidemic of blindness, exposing the dark and chaotic side of human nature. It presents a profound commentary on society's divisions and the importance of light and truth, symbolized by sight. Its dystopian tone and moral dilemmas make it a compelling choice for the next reading after the religious critique novels. Seeing offers a thematic follow-up, providing a counter-narrative and showing how light can return to the world. It deals with themes of connection, renewal, and the triumph of the human spirit over adversity. The narrative of The Cave delves further into existential and metaphysical questions, intertwining with the human dimension to make an even more compelling philosophical statement.

Why Follow This Order?

This reading order is recommended because it provides a structured path that gradually introduces readers to the diverse thematic and narrative styles of Saramago’s works. Starting with his religious critique novels allows readers to understand the author’s unique approach to storytelling and his ability to blend historical context with imaginative fiction. Moving to his more philosophical works, particularly 'Blindness', 'Seeing', and 'The Cave,' helps readers appreciate the depth of Saramago’s exploration of universal questions such as humanity, morality, and the structure of society.

Understanding Saramago's Literary Style

Jorge Amado Saramago is known for his distinctive prose, characterized by meticulous wordplay, vivid imagery, and unorthodox narrative structures. His use of fantasy and surrealism often serves as a lens through which he presents his views on the world, making his works both entertaining and thought-provoking. This reading order allows readers to not only enjoy the story but also to reflect on the underlying messages and the author’s intentions.

Conclusion

The recommended reading order for Saramago's books is a thoughtfully crafted pathway that guides readers into the mind of one of the most innovative and influential writers of his generation. By starting with religious critiques and moving on to more philosophical inquiries, readers can experience a cohesive and enriching journey through Saramago's universe of ideas, challenges, and revelations. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned reader of literature, this order provides a framework to enhance your understanding and appreciation of Saramago's remarkable body of work.

Further Reading and Resources

For a deeper dive into Saramago's works, consider exploring additional resources such as Wikipedia, NPR Literary Landmarks, and Goodreads recommendations. These resources can provide further insights and help you discover more of Saramago's captivating works.