The Victim (novel)

The Victim is a 1947 novel by American author Saul Bellow. It is Bellow's second published novel, following Dangling Man. The novel explores themes of responsibility, identity, guilt, and the nature of persecution, set against the backdrop of a sweltering summer in New York City.

The story centers on Asa Leventhal, a Jewish man struggling to maintain his composure and stability while his wife is away caring for her sick mother. Leventhal's carefully ordered life begins to unravel when he encounters Kirby Allbee, a former acquaintance. Allbee blames Leventhal for a series of misfortunes that have befallen him, including the loss of his job and the death of his wife's family. Allbee insinuates that Leventhal's actions, whether intentional or not, have contributed to his downfall.

As the novel progresses, Leventhal finds himself increasingly drawn into Allbee's orbit, wrestling with feelings of guilt and a growing sense of responsibility for Allbee's plight. The relationship between the two men becomes complex and ambiguous, blurring the lines between victim and victimizer. Leventhal's attempts to help Allbee often backfire, further complicating their dynamic.

The Victim is notable for its exploration of the psychological complexities of its characters and its examination of the social anxieties and prejudices prevalent in post-World War II America. It raises profound questions about the nature of personal responsibility, the burden of guilt, and the difficulty of defining who is truly a victim in a world where cause and effect are often intertwined. The novel is considered a significant work in Bellow's early career, showcasing his emerging talent for character development and his engagement with complex moral and philosophical issues.