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Cover of Dictionary of the Khazars
Literary Fiction· Serbia

Dictionary of the Khazars

by Milorad Pavić
Aggregate Editorial Score30/100
Published 1984Serbian
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About This Book

Milorad Pavić's Dictionary of the Khazars (1984) stands as one of the most significant works of literary fiction of its era. This novel is a unique and imaginative work that presents itself as a dictionary of the Khazar people, a fictionalized tribe that disappeared in the 10th century. The book is divided into three parts: Christian, Islamic, and Jewish, each offering different perspectives on the Khazars. Known for its non-linear narrative and metafictional elements, it challenges the reader to piece together the story, making it a landmark in postmodern literature. Themes of identity, history, religion run through the work.

Book Details

AuthorMilorad Pavić
Published1984
Country of Origin🇷🇸 Serbia
LanguageSerbian
Category📖 Literary Fiction
ISBN9780394571185
Editorial Score30/100
About the Category

📖 Literary Fiction

Character-driven fiction that prioritises style, theme, and psychological depth.

Explore all Literary Fiction books →
Country of Origin

🇷🇸 Serbia

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

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Editorial Assessment

Dictionary of the Khazars by Milorad Pavić sits within the tradition of literary fiction that treats language as seriously as plot. Published in 1984 in Serbia, it engages with identity, history, religion, mythology in ways that have earned it lasting critical attention. With an editorial score of 30/100 drawn from 1 independent sources, the book occupies a well-documented position in the critical literature. Its recognition spans international prizes, "best of" lists, and academic surveys. The appeal of Dictionary of the Khazars lies partly in its refusal to offer easy answers. Its exploration of identity, history, religion, mythology is sustained, textured, and genuinely thought-provoking in ways that stay with readers well after the final page. Dictionary of the Khazars reflects Milorad Pavić's place in a wider literary tradition. The book's concerns resonate with Serbia's broader cultural preoccupations, even as they reach beyond any single national context.
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

Guardian 100 Best Novels
list · global
20030
✍️
About the Author
Milorad Pavić
Serbia
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Milorad Pavić is a Serbia author whose work in literary fiction has earned recognition from readers and critics alike.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dictionary of the Khazars about?

This novel is a unique and imaginative work that presents itself as a dictionary of the Khazar people, a fictionalized tribe that disappeared in the 10th century. The book is divided into three parts: Christian, Islamic, and Jewish, each offering different perspectives on the Khazars. Known for its non-linear narrative and metafictional elements, it challenges the reader to piece together the story, making it a landmark in postmodern literature.

Who wrote Dictionary of the Khazars?

Dictionary of the Khazars was written by Milorad Pavić, from Serbia. First published in 1984.

What awards has Dictionary of the Khazars won?

Dictionary of the Khazars has received the following recognition: notable critical recognition.

Is Dictionary of the Khazars worth reading?

Dictionary of the Khazars 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 identity, history, religion.

Where can I buy Dictionary of the Khazars?

You can buy Dictionary of the Khazars on Amazon. Click the Buy on Amazon button above to find the best edition.

What category is Dictionary of the Khazars?

Dictionary of the Khazars is classified as Literary Fiction. Character-driven fiction that prioritises style, theme, and psychological depth.

What country is Dictionary of the Khazars from?

Dictionary of the Khazars originates from Serbia's literary tradition. Explore more books from Serbia on our country page.

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