52 pages 1 hour read

Iris Murdoch

The Bell

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1958

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Before You Read

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

In Iris Murdoch's The Bell, young arrivals Dora and Toby join a lay religious community near a convent, each grappling with personal challenges as a new bell's arrival stirs the group's dynamics. Dora seeks independence from her husband, Michael struggles with his sexual identity, and Toby plans a prank involving an old submerged bell, leading to transformative events for everyone involved. This novel references an inappropriate relationship between a teacher and a student.

Reviews & Readership

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Iris Murdoch's The Bell is widely regarded for its intricate exploration of human relationships and moral complexities. Critics praise its compelling characters and philosophical depth. However, some find the plot meandering and the dense prose challenging. Nevertheless, it stands as a profound and thought-provoking read, showcasing Murdoch's literary prowess.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Bell?

A reader who would enjoy Iris Murdoch's The Bell is likely to appreciate complex character studies and moral dilemmas. Fans of literary fiction like Virginia Woolf's To the Lighthouse or E.M. Forster's A Room with a View will find Murdoch's exploration of human relationships and existential questions captivating.

Recommended

Reading Age

18+years

Lexile Level

1000L

Book Details

Genre

Classic Fiction

British Literature

Philosophy

Topics

Religion / Spirituality

LGBTQ

History: World

Themes

Values/Ideas: Good & Evil

Values/Ideas: Religion & Spirituality

Identity: Sexuality