The Malcontents by C.P. Snow (1959)

Name: The Malcontents
Author: C.P. Snow

The novel explores the tensions between science and art through the story of a group of intellectuals who are disillusioned with the values of modern society. They see themselves as outsiders, rejecting the materialism and conformity that they believe have corrupted the world. The protagonist is a scientist who has become increasingly disenchanted with the scientific community's emphasis on practical applications over pure research. He joins a group of like-minded individuals who share his concerns about the dehumanizing effects of modern technology. As the story unfolds, the Malcontents' critiques of society are revealed to be shallow and self-serving. They are more interested in their own intellectual superiority than in genuinely challenging the status quo. The novel ultimately presents a bleak view of the human condition, suggesting that even those who claim to be outsiders are often trapped by their own biases and prejudices.

By C.P. Snow · First published 1959 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Social Commentary, Political Fiction · 29 chapters · 85,571 words

First lines

In the mild January night, a young man was waiting outside his father's house. A single bell rang, and kept on ringing, from the cathedral tower. The young man, whose name was Stephen Freer, was used to bells, having lived since he was a child in that house close by. Six fifteen on a Saturday evening: the spoken evensong without a choir: not paying attention, concentrated on his own thoughts, he watched a couple of figures, and then another, move towards the radiant porch.

What this Textopian page supports

The Malcontents is listed on Textopian as a novel by C.P. Snow, dated 1959 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Novel
Author: C.P. Snow
Date: 1959 CE
Language: English
Genres: Literary Fiction, Social Commentary, Political Fiction, Drama, Philosophical Fiction
Length: 85,571 words
Structure: 29 chapters, 1,981 paragraphs
Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)

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Discussion starters

What should a reader notice first when entering The Malcontents?
How does this novel by C.P. Snow fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Literary Fiction first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Literary Fiction — The book explores complex themes and character development, focusing on the human condition.
Social Commentary — It critiques societal norms and explores the impact of social structures on individuals.
Political Fiction — The narrative delves into political ideologies and their effects on personal relationships.
Drama — The story features intense emotional conflicts and character-driven plots.