The Song of the World by Jean Giono (Book Analysis)

This practical and insightful reading guide offers a complete summary and analysis of The Song of the World by Jean Giono. It provides a thorough exploration of the novel’s plot, characters and main themes, including nature, family and vengeance. The clear and concise style makes for easy understanding, providing the perfect opportunity to improve your literary knowledge in no time.

This clear and detailed 50-page reading guide is structured as follows:

• Biography of Jean Giono
• Presentation of The Song of the World
• Summary of The Song of the World
• Character study
  • Antonio
  • Sailor
  • Toussaint
  • The twin
  • The Maudru clan
  • Gina
  • Clara
• Analysis of The Song of the World
  • Nature personified
  • Civilization condemned
  • A tale of a quest
  • From adventure to myth

About The Song of the World 

The Song of the World is Giono’s first book which is set in the mountains. Although the novel follows the quest of two friends to find one of their sons, Giono puts a significant emphasis on nature, which is a vital presence throughout the story. The Song of the World was first published as a serial in Revue de Paris in 1934, although it was published as a book later in the same year. The first English translation appeared in 1937.

About Jean Giono

Jean Giono was a French writer who was born and died in Manosque, France. Although he was forced to leave school at the age of 16 to earn money for his family, he never forgot his love of literature, particularly famous works such as Homer’s Iliad. He was called up for service in 1914, and his experience in the war had a profound impact both on him and on his writing. He became a lifelong pacifist, which can be seen in his works of the 1930s. He passed away in 1970 at the age of 75.