Description
“The Comedians” is a novel written by British author Graham Greene. Published in 1966, the novel is set in Haiti during the regime of François “Papa Doc” Duvalier, a period marked by political repression and social unrest. The story unfolds against the backdrop of the capital city, Port-au-Prince, during the 1964 election campaign.
The novel follows the experiences of the central character, Brown, an English hotelier played by Richard Burton in the 1967 film adaptation. Brown owns a hotel in Haiti and becomes entangled in the political and social complexities of the country. The narrative introduces a cast of characters, including Mr. and Mrs. Smith, a seemingly innocent couple; a former presidential candidate, Major Jones; and a mysterious man named Mr. Jones.
Throughout the novel, Greene explores themes of political intrigue, moral compromise, and the impact of a dictatorial regime on the lives of individuals. The title “The Comedians” refers not only to the entertainers who perform at the hotel but also to the characters who navigate the absurd and often darkly humorous situations in the politically charged environment.
Graham Greene was known for his skillful exploration of political and moral issues within the framework of suspenseful and character-driven narratives. “The Comedians” is no exception and provides a vivid portrait of a troubled nation through the eyes of a diverse group of characters.
The novel was adapted into a film in 1967, directed by Peter Glenville and starring Richard Burton, Elizabeth Taylor, and Alec Guinness. While the film takes liberties with the source material, it captures the essence of Greene’s exploration of political and personal turmoil in Haiti.
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