Arch of Triumph (novel)

Arch of Triumph is a novel written by Erich Maria Remarque, first published in 1945. The story is set in Paris in 1939, on the eve of World War II, and follows the life of Ravic, a stateless and undocumented German surgeon who is a refugee living illegally in the city.

Ravic, a highly skilled physician, is unable to practice under his own name due to his undocumented status. He secretly performs surgeries for other, licensed doctors, saving lives while remaining in the shadows. The novel explores themes of exile, displacement, the trauma of war, love, loss, and the moral complexities of survival in a time of political upheaval and widespread persecution.

Ravic's life is complicated by his relationships, most notably his passionate and tumultuous affair with Joan Madou, an actress. He also interacts with a variety of other characters who are navigating their own difficult circumstances in a world on the brink of war.

The title, Arch of Triumph, is symbolic, representing both the historical landmark in Paris and the fleeting moments of triumph that characters experience amidst the larger tragedy unfolding around them. The novel is known for its realistic portrayal of the refugee experience and its poignant exploration of the human condition in the face of adversity. Arch of Triumph is considered one of Remarque's most significant works, solidifying his reputation as a chronicler of the human cost of war and political instability.