Description
Orlando
Book Summary
A masterpiece of modernist literature that defies conventions of gender and time. Written by Virginia Woolf, this novel is a refined parody of the biographical genre and a biting satire of sexism. Through the life of its protagonist, who spans centuries and changes sex, Woolf constructs a lucid reflection on identity, androgyny, and creative freedom. An essential read for those seeking an innovative and profoundly human narrative.
What is it about?
The novel follows the extraordinary life of Orlando, a young nobleman of the Elizabethan court who, after a mysterious sleep, wakes up transformed into a woman. From that moment on, their existence unfolds over more than three centuries, crossing different historical eras and geographies, from 17th-century London to the exotic East and Victorian England. The work is a satire of traditional biographical literature and a critique of the gender roles imposed by society. Woolf uses this fantastical structure to explore how sexual identity shapes one's experience of the world and artistic creation, all narrated with a lyrical, ironic, and deeply subversive style.
Main Themes
- Gender identity and androgyny as a form of freedom.
- Critique of sexism and the social conventions of each era.
- The passage of time and the permanence of the self through the centuries.
- The relationship between literature, biography, and fiction.
- The search for authenticity and artistic expression.
Who is it recommended for?
For readers interested in modernist literature, feminism, and experimental narrative. Also for those who enjoy works that question established norms and offer a deep reflection on human identity. Especially recommended for students of literature, gender theory, and anyone looking for an intelligent and transformative read.
What this book offers
- A unique perspective on gender fluidity, ahead of its time.
- A brilliant and witty satire of social and literary conventions.
- A poetic narrative that combines fantasy, history, and social criticism.
- A timeless reflection on the freedom to be oneself.
- A reading experience that challenges classic narrative structures.
Technical Details
- Author: AA.VV
- Publisher: INSTITUTO ARTES ESCENICAS Y MUSICA
- Language: Spanish
- Subject: MODERN AND CONTEMPORARY FICTION
- Collection: FONDO
- Binding: Paperback
- Publication date: July 2025
- Number of pages: 90
- Weight: 120 g
Editorial Review
This edition of "Orlando" offers an excellent opportunity to access one of the most innovative works of the 20th century in a manageable and accessible format. The novel, originally published in 1928, remains astonishingly relevant and continues to be a key reference for understanding the evolution of feminist thought and avant-garde literature. Its brevity (90 pages) does not detract from the depth of a story that condenses centuries of human experience into exquisite prose. An essential title for any library that aspires to represent the diversity and richness of modern narrative.