47 pages 1 hour read

Philip Roth

Portnoy's Complaint

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1969

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

In Portnoy’s Complaint, Alexander Portnoy, a neurotic Jewish man, recounts his tangled relationships with his domineering mother, passive father, and his intense sexual obsessions to his therapist, Dr. Spielvogel. He reflects on how his overbearing upbringing and Jewish identity influence his sexual behavior and romantic failures, all within a darkly comedic narrative. The book depicts antisemitism and an attempted rape.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Philip Roth's Portnoy's Complaint is recognized for its bold exploration of Jewish-American identity and raw sexual candor, earning praise for its humor and narrative innovation. Some critique its explicit content and perceived misogyny. While its provocativeness captivates many, it also alienates some readers, eliciting polarized responses overall.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Portnoy's Complaint?

A reader who would enjoy Portnoy's Complaint by Philip Roth likely appreciates candid, humorous explorations of neuroses and sexuality. Fans of J.D. Salinger's The Catcher in the Rye or John Updike's Rabbit, Run would find Roth's introspective and provocative style engaging. This reader seeks bold, psychologically nuanced narratives.

Recommended

Reading Age

18+years

Book Details

Genre

Humor

Jewish Literature

American Literature

Topics

Love / Sexuality

Psychology

History: U.S.

Themes

Values/Ideas: Religion & Spirituality

Emotions/Behavior: Shame & Pride