Summary of "Blindness" by José Saramago

"Blindness" is a novel by Nobel Prize-winning author José Saramago that explores the disintegration of society following an epidemic of blindness that sweeps through an unnamed city. The story begins when a man suddenly goes blind while driving, followed by a rapid spread of the affliction, leading to widespread panic and chaos.

Themes

• Human Nature and Society: The novel delves into the depths of human nature, revealing both the dark and compassionate sides of individuals when faced with a crisis.
• Survival and Morality: As the blindness epidemic worsens, the novel examines how the characters navigate the thin line between survival and morality, often facing harsh ethical dilemmas.
• Government and Power: Saramago critiques government and societal structures, showing how quickly they can collapse and how those in power may exploit situations for their own benefit.

Plot Overview

The government's response is to quarantine the blind in an abandoned asylum, with new blindness cases sent to join them, including the doctor's wife, who feigns blindness to stay with her husband. Inside, conditions rapidly deteriorate, leading to a breakdown of social order, and the emergence of a tyrannical group that takes control of food supplies.

Despite the harrowing circumstances, the novel also highlights the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of solidarity. The doctor's wife, who remains sighted, becomes a guide and protector for a group of internees, leading them in a struggle for survival and dignity.

Conclusion

"Blindness" is a powerful allegory about loss, human nature, and the fragility of civilization. It forces readers to confront uncomfortable truths about society and themselves, making it a profound and unsettling read. Through its exploration of darkness and light, both literal and metaphorical, Saramago challenges us to see the world anew, to recognize the value of compassion, and the critical need for humanity to look beyond superficial differences.