Nausea by Jean-Paul Sartre is a profound philosophical novel exploring existential angst and the meaning of existence through its protagonist, Antoine Roquentin. Critics praise its deep introspection and innovative narrative style. However, some find it excessively introspective and dense. The novel remains a seminal work in existentialist literature, provoking thought and debate.

Readers who enjoy Nausea by Jean-Paul Sartre typically appreciate existential literature and deep philosophical explorations of meaning and individuality. Fans of Sartre's work may also enjoy Albert Camus' The Stranger or Franz Kafka's The Metamorphosis, which similarly delve into themes of alienation and existential angst.

In the fictional French city of Bouville, historian Antoine Roquentin lives in isolation, researching an 18th-century aristocrat. As he documents his life in a diary, he grows increasingly disoriented and nauseated by the existence of objects and his own being, questioning the meaning of existence. His interactions with people and his work drive him deeper into existential despair and alienation. Nausea includes depictions of pedophilia, suicidal ideation, self-harm, and ableism, as well as references to sexual assault and contains racist stereotypes and language.

Mysterious / Contemplative / Melancholic / Dark

- Nausea is considered to be one of the seminal works of existential literature and was Jean-Paul Sartre's first completed novel, published in 1938.
- The title Nausea was inspired by the protagonist's existential experience, reflecting Sartre's exploration of meaning and existence.
- Jean-Paul Sartre initially planned to call the book "Melancholia," but eventually settled on Nausea as it better captured the philosophical themes he wanted to convey.

**Antoine Roquentin**  
A 30-year-old historian living in the city of Bouville, working on researching the life of a fictional 18th-century aristocrat. As the protagonist, his reflections and experiences form the core narrative of his journey through alienation and existential reflection.

**Self-Taught Man (Ogier P.)**  
A clerk who dedicates his free time to self-education at the library and is a member of the French Socialist Party. His interactions and ideological views contrast with Antoine’s, providing a counterpoint within the story's philosophical discourse.

**Anny**  
Antoine's ex-lover, who once lived for "perfect moments" but has since become disenchanted. She is central to Antoine’s personal reflections and serves as a critical link to his past experiences and desires for connection.

**Bouville**  
The fictional city where Antoine resides, based on the real city of Le Havre in France. It serves as both a setting and a reflective character that mirrors the themes of the novel, such as class structure and existential symbolism.

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