Catch-22 Book Summary

A Novel

by Joseph Heller158

TL;DR

Catch-22 is a satirical novel by Joseph Heller that follows bombardier Captain John Yossarian's desperate attempts to survive World War II, highlighting the absurdity of war and bureaucratic operations.

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What is Catch-22 about

Catch-22, written by Joseph Heller and published in 1961, is a satirical novel set during World War II. The story revolves around Captain John Yossarian, an American bombardier stationed on a Mediterranean island. Yossarian is desperate to stay alive while facing the absurdities and paradoxes of war, particularly the infamous 'Catch-22,' a rule that makes it impossible to escape dangerous missions. The novel delves deep into the ridiculousness of war and the convoluted nature of military bureaucracy.

Catch-22 6 Key Takeaways

Introduction to Yossarian

Captain John Yossarian is introduced as a bombardier attempting to survive the war. He is stationed on the fictional Mediterranean island of Pianosa.

The Catch-22 Paradox

The novel presents the 'Catch-22' rule, which states that airmen who are insane can be grounded, but they must request it. However, requesting to be grounded indicates sanity, making them ineligible to be relieved from duty.

Yossarian's Struggles

Yossarian tries various tactics to avoid flying more combat missions, including feigning illness and sabotage. He faces bureaucratic hurdles at every turn.

The Death of Snowden

Yossarian is haunted by the death of a young gunner named Snowden, which profoundly affects his views on life and war.

Major Major Major Major

The absurdity of the military bureaucracy is highlighted through the character Major Major Major Major, who is promoted to major purely because of his name.

The Final Escape

Facing the increasing insanity of his superiors and the horrors of war, Yossarian ultimately decides to desert the army, rejecting the 'Catch-22' logic.

Top Catch-22 Quotes

"He was going to live forever, or die in the attempt."
"Just because you're paranoid doesn't mean they aren't after you."

Who should read Catch-22?

Catch-22 is ideal for readers interested in antiwar literature, satirical fiction, and critiques of bureaucracy. High school and college students, as well as adults seeking a profound and humorous examination of war, will find this book particularly engaging.

About the Author

Joseph Heller (1923-1999) was an American author best known for his satirical novel Catch-22. Born in Brooklyn, New York, Heller flew 60 combat missions as a bombardier in World War II, an experience that profoundly influenced his writing. Catch-22, published in 1961, became one of the most significant American novels of the 20th century, celebrated for its critique of war and bureaucracy. Heller's other notable works include Something Happened, Good as Gold, and God Knows.

Catch-22 Best Reviews

The New York Times describes Catch-22 as 'one of the greatest antiwar novels ever written, a profound and hilarious satire that exposes the absurdities of war and bureaucracy.'
The Guardian praises it as 'a masterclass in absurdist fiction, offering a darkly comedic yet poignant critique of military life and the human condition.'