55 pages 1 hour read

George Orwell

Burmese Days

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1934

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Burmese Days by George Orwell is set in the fictional district of Kyauktada in British-ruled Burma, following the life of Flory, a lonely 35-year-old English timber merchant. Flory seeks companionship and love amidst his criticisms of British imperialism and strained interactions with fellow Europeans. His quest for a wife and his friendship with the Indian doctor Veraswami unfolds against the backdrop of local corruption, native uprisings, and societal conflicts. Topics include racial discrimination, colonial oppression, and suicide.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Burmese Days by George Orwell is lauded for its compelling critique of colonialism and detailed depiction of 1920s Burma. Orwell's prose is praised for its vivid imagery and biting social commentary. However, some critics find the pacing slow and the characters one-dimensional. Overall, it’s a powerful but occasionally arduous read on imperial ethics.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Burmese Days?

Readers who enjoy Burmese Days by George Orwell typically have an interest in British colonial history, social critique, and character-driven narratives. Fans of works like E. M. Forster's A Passage to India and Joseph Conrad's Heart of Darkness will appreciate Orwell's exploration of imperialism, race, and morality.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details

Genre

Historical Fiction

British Literature

Travel Literature

Topics

History: World