Helpful Score: 1
The central figure, Rubashov, is a revolutionista communist. But, now it is his turn in the pit. He has displeased someone. Well, what should he have expected? This is his ordeal: to rewrite history; to right his wrongs against the party. As I read this, I reflect back to Kafkas The Trial, in which the central character is interrogated, imprisoned, and tried without ever being informed as to the nature of the charges against him. You have read of all of this before; you will read it again in the works of Isaac Singer. As do Kafka and Singer, Koestler will make you will feel all of the tedium and frustration of the hearing processthe inquisition to reinvent the truth.
Helpful Score: 1
One of the best I've ever read. Amazed that it was written over 60 years ago. If you have any interest in political or mid-20th century history, add this one to your list.