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A review by sleeping_while_awake
Gargantua and Pantagruel by François Rabelais
1.0
I didn't like it; in fact I can't remember how many times I picked this up only to put it down after a few pages and then wander off to do something else.
I enjoyed Gargantua, Book 1. It took me a bit to warm up to Rabelais, but by the end I was surprised how engrossed I was in the squabbling French countryside. But then came along Pantagruel, a scholarly, philosophical giant, who bored me to death the rest of the novel. Book 2 basically showed off how smart and wonderful Pantagruel is and how he gives sage advice. Book 3, centering around Panurge's fate of marriage really dragged the book down. Book 4 was okay, a bit better than 3. Honestly a repeat of Book 2. Book 5 interested me again. However, it is obvious Book 5 was not written by Rabelais. It is easier to read and the language is considerably dumbed down.
It was extremely repetitive. Also, Rabelais loves lists. I couldn't help play the tune to Daft Punk's "Technologic" every time I was reading through those long, long lists.
I understand the historical importance...but the plot was negligent. Not sure what I have taken away from this...
I enjoyed Gargantua, Book 1. It took me a bit to warm up to Rabelais, but by the end I was surprised how engrossed I was in the squabbling French countryside. But then came along Pantagruel, a scholarly, philosophical giant, who bored me to death the rest of the novel. Book 2 basically showed off how smart and wonderful Pantagruel is and how he gives sage advice. Book 3, centering around Panurge's fate of marriage really dragged the book down. Book 4 was okay, a bit better than 3. Honestly a repeat of Book 2. Book 5 interested me again. However, it is obvious Book 5 was not written by Rabelais. It is easier to read and the language is considerably dumbed down.
It was extremely repetitive. Also, Rabelais loves lists. I couldn't help play the tune to Daft Punk's "Technologic" every time I was reading through those long, long lists.
I understand the historical importance...but the plot was negligent. Not sure what I have taken away from this...