Catch-22 by Joseph Heller is praised for its dark humor, satirical depiction of war, and innovative narrative structure. Critics commend its commentary on bureaucracy and absurdity. However, some readers find the non-linear plot and repetitiveness challenging. Overall, it is celebrated as a groundbreaking work of 20th-century literature.

A reader who enjoys provocatively satirical narratives and dark humor would appreciate Catch-22 by Joseph Heller. Fans of Kurt Vonnegut’s Slaughterhouse-Five and George Orwell’s 1984 will find the absurdity and critique of war and bureaucracy engaging. The novel appeals to those who appreciate complex characters and thought-provoking themes.

Catch-22 by Joseph Heller follows Captain Yossarian, a US Army Air Force bombardier stationed on an Italian island during World War II, as he tries to avoid dangerous combat missions. Faced with the paradox that his desire to evade danger proves his sanity, Yossarian's attempts to be grounded are thwarted, while the military's increasing mission quotas prevent anyone from returning home.

Be advised that Catch-22 depicts graphic violence, sexual assault, and substance use.

Humorous / Dark / Suspenseful / Mysterious / Gritty

- Joseph Heller coined the term "catch-22" to describe an absurd, no-win situation, and it has since entered the English language as a well-recognized expression.
- Heller began writing Catch-22 in 1953, and despite initial poor sales, the novel grew in popularity during the Vietnam War, resonating with anti-war sentiments.
- The title of the novel was originally Catch-18, but it was changed to avoid confusion with another book published around the same time, Mila 18 by Leon Uris.

**Captain John Yossarian**  
A bombardier in the United States Army Air Force who is desperate to escape the war, focused on his own survival among the threats posed by both enemy and allied forces. His perspective on the absurdity of the war sets him apart from his peers.

**Chaplain Tappman**  
A gentle and anxious chaplain who actively tries to help the men in his squadron, even as he experiences his own crisis of faith. His friendship with Yossarian is pivotal to his personal evolution.

**Milo Minderbinder**  
An opportunistic officer who leverages wartime conditions for personal profit and exemplifies the chaotic capitalism pervasive in the war. He is known for his elaborate syndicate and profit-oriented mindset.

**Colonel Cathcart**  
An ambitious and ruthless officer who continuously raises the required number of missions for the squadron, motivated by his desire for promotion. Despite his power, he is plagued by fear and self-doubt.

Joseph Heller

Adult

Novel

Catch-22

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore Catch-22 reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read Catch-22 | SuperSummary

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore Catch-22 and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Catch-22 Summary and Study Guide

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-11

Catch-22 Chapters 1-11 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 12-20

Catch-22 Chapters 12-20 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 21-25

Catch-22 Chapters 21-25 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 26-31

Catch-22 Chapters 26-31 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 32-42

Catch-22 Chapters 32-42 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Catch-22 Character Analysis

theme

Themes

Catch-22 Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Catch-22 Symbols & Motifs

quote

citation

Important Quotes

Catch-22 Important Quotes

primaryCharacter

Essay Topics

Catch-22 Essay Topics

Catch-22

Before You Read

Super Short Summary

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Catch-22?

Reading Age

Book Details