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Cover of Baltasar and Blimunda
Historical Fiction· Portugal

Baltasar and Blimunda

by José Saramago
Aggregate Editorial Score30/100
Published 1982Portuguese
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About This Book

José Saramago's Baltasar and Blimunda (1982) stands as one of the most significant works of historical fiction of its era. Baltasar and Blimunda is a novel by Nobel laureate José Saramago, set in 18th-century Portugal. The story follows the love affair between Baltasar, a soldier who lost his hand in battle, and Blimunda, a woman with mystical powers. Their lives intertwine with the construction of a flying machine and the building of the Mafra Convent, offering a rich tapestry of historical and magical elements. The novel is acclaimed for its lyrical prose and exploration of themes like love, power, and freedom. Themes of love, power, freedom run through the work.

Book Details

AuthorJosé Saramago
Published1982
Country of Origin🇵🇹 Portugal
LanguagePortuguese
Category🗺️ Historical Fiction
ISBN978-0156005203
Editorial Score30/100
About the Category

🗺️ Historical Fiction

Novels set in the past, blending real events with fictional narratives.

Explore all Historical Fiction books →
Country of Origin

🇵🇹 Portugal

This book is part of Portugal's rich literary tradition.

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Editorial Assessment

Baltasar and Blimunda by José Saramago sits within the tradition of historical fiction that treats language as seriously as plot. Published in 1982 in Portugal, it engages with love, power, freedom, mysticism in ways that have earned it lasting critical attention. The book's place in the literary record rests on its presence across major prize lists and critical surveys. Its aggregate editorial score of 30/100 reflects recognition from 1 independent editorial sources, from international prizes to specialist critical journals. Readers coming to Baltasar and Blimunda for the first time will find a work that rewards patience. The book's handling of love, power, freedom, mysticism is layered rather than didactic, and a second reading often reveals dimensions the first pass only hinted at. José Saramago's role in the literature of Portugal is well established. Baltasar and Blimunda can be read as both a standalone achievement and as part of a broader national literary conversation about identity, history, and the possibilities of narrative form.
About this assessment: Editorial scores are aggregated from 1 independent sources including major literary prizes, critical surveys, and leading publications. Our editorial team reviews and contextualises this data. Rankings reflect critical consensus, not personal opinion or popularity metrics. Learn about our methodology.

Awards & Recognition

NYT Best Sellers
notable · global
19870
✍️
About the Author
José Saramago
Portugal
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José Saramago is a celebrated author from Portugal known for influential works of literary fiction.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Baltasar and Blimunda about?

Baltasar and Blimunda is a novel by Nobel laureate José Saramago, set in 18th-century Portugal. The story follows the love affair between Baltasar, a soldier who lost his hand in battle, and Blimunda, a woman with mystical powers. Their lives intertwine with the construction of a flying machine and the building of the Mafra Convent, offering a rich tapestry of historical and magical elements. The novel is acclaimed for its lyrical prose and exploration of themes like love, power, and freedom.

Who wrote Baltasar and Blimunda?

Baltasar and Blimunda was written by José Saramago, from Portugal. First published in 1982.

What awards has Baltasar and Blimunda won?

Baltasar and Blimunda has received the following recognition: notable critical recognition.

Is Baltasar and Blimunda worth reading?

Baltasar and Blimunda is a well-regarded book with an aggregate editorial score of 30/100 on 50 Best Books. It is particularly recommended for readers interested in love, power, freedom.

Where can I buy Baltasar and Blimunda?

You can buy Baltasar and Blimunda on Amazon. Click the Buy on Amazon button above to find the best edition.

What category is Baltasar and Blimunda?

Baltasar and Blimunda is classified as Historical Fiction. Novels set in the past, blending real events with fictional narratives.

What country is Baltasar and Blimunda from?

Baltasar and Blimunda originates from Portugal's literary tradition. Explore more books from Portugal on our country page.

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