Description:
(Portuguese Writer and Winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1998)
Jose Saramago was a Nobel-winning Portuguese novelist, journalist, translator, and playwright. Considered to be the most productive Portuguese-language novelist in the 20th century, success did not come easily to him. He was able to earn recognition only during his sixties after working rigorously for years. Even though he took up writing at an early age, his works didn’t really get appreciated, especially in Portugal. After taking up a variety of odd jobs to sustain his living, he switched to making a career in literature after the 1974 Carnation Revolution. Eventually, he published a series of novels, but it was his 1980 book ‘Raised from the Ground’ which brought him on the forefront in the literary world. And with the release of ‘Baltasar and Blimunda’ in 1982, he became an international novelist. Through his hard work, determination and wonderful imagination, he went on to become one of the finest Portuguese writers of his generation. His works were highly acclaimed and honored with several awards, including the prestigious Nobel Prize in Literature, thereby making him the first Portuguese-language writer to receive this award. Some of his popular works include ‘The Year of the Death of Ricardo Reis’, ‘The Gospel According to Jesus Christ’, ‘The Skylight’, ‘The Notes’, ‘Blindness’, and ‘The Elephant’s Journey’
Birthday
November 16, 1922 (Scorpio)
Alternative names
José de Sousa Saramago
Died on
June 18, 2010
Spouse/Ex-
Ilda Reis, Isabel da Nóbrega, Pilar del Rio
Parents
José de Sousa
Maria Da Piedade
Children
Violante dos Reis Saramago
Relatives
Francisco de Sousa
What is the significance of the Blindness novel by José Saramago?
The novel "Blindness" by José Saramago explores themes of societal breakdown, human resilience, and the fragility of civilization through the lens of a sudden epidemic of blindness that strikes a city.
How did José Saramago's background influence his writing style?
José Saramago's background, including his childhood in a rural village and his experiences with political activism, heavily influenced his unique writing style characterized by long sentences, lack of traditional punctuation, and deep philosophical reflections.
What is the philosophical theme explored in José Saramago's novel "Seeing?"
In the novel "Seeing" by José Saramago, the philosophical theme of the fragility of democracy is explored as the inhabitants of an unnamed city abstain from voting in an election, leading to a political crisis and a reflection on the nature of power.
How does José Saramago use allegory in his novel "The Gospel According to Jesus Christ?"
In "The Gospel According to Jesus Christ" by José Saramago, the author uses allegory to challenge traditional religious narratives and explore the complexities of faith, morality, and the human experience through a reimagining of the life of Jesus Christ.
What is the role of historical events in José Saramago's novel "The Year of the Death of Ricardo Reis?"
In "The Year of the Death of Ricardo Reis" by José Saramago, historical events and political upheaval in 1930s Portugal serve as a backdrop for exploring themes of identity, mortality, and existential reflection through the character of Ricardo Reis.
