The Swindler by Francisco de Quevedo
"El Buscón" is a picaresque novel that tells the story of Pablos, the son of a thief and a witch, who aspires to be a gentleman despite his low birth. The narrative follows Pablos's adventures as he navigates through various social classes in 17th-century Spain, from his impoverished childhood to his failed attempts to gain wealth and status through deception and trickery. The novel is a satirical critique of Spanish society, highlighting the corruption and hypocrisy of the nobility and the church.
The 811th greatest book of all time
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Total Points: 591
This book was first published in 1626
4 Lists
- score: 215 -- 'The perfect library': the 196 books selected by 133 personalities - 2020 (Weight: 190)
- score: 205 -- The 100 Best Books of World Literature - 2018 (Weight: 190)
- score: 170 -- Best Foreign Work of Fiction Chosen by Francophone Writers - 2006 (Weight: 170)
- score: 1 -- Our Users' Honorable Mention Favorite Books of All Time - 2024 (Weight: 1)