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Literary Fiction· Switzerland

Homo Faber

by Max Frisch
Aggregate Editorial Score30/100
Published 1957German
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About This Book

Max Frisch's Homo Faber (1957) stands as one of the most significant works of literary fiction of its era. Homo Faber is a seminal work of 20th-century literature that delves into themes of technology, fate, and existentialism. The novel follows Walter Faber, an engineer whose rational worldview is challenged by a series of personal and emotional upheavals. Frisch's exploration of the conflict between technology and humanity remains relevant, making it a cornerstone of Swiss literature. Themes of technology vs. humanity, fate, existentialism run through the work.

Book Details

AuthorMax Frisch
Published1957
Country of Origin🇨🇭 Switzerland
LanguageGerman
Category📖 Literary Fiction
ISBN9780156421355
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

🇨🇭 Switzerland

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

Explore books from Switzerland →

Editorial Assessment

Max Frisch published Homo Faber in 1957, and it has since become one of the more widely recognised works of literary fiction from Switzerland. The book's treatment of technology vs. humanity, fate, existentialism, identity accounts for much of its enduring reputation. Critics and institutions have consistently placed Homo Faber among the notable works of its period. Our aggregate score of 30/100 is compiled from 1 editorial sources that range from Nobel and Booker committees to leading literary journals. The appeal of Homo Faber lies partly in its refusal to offer easy answers. Its exploration of technology vs. humanity, fate, existentialism, identity is sustained, textured, and genuinely thought-provoking in ways that stay with readers well after the final page. Within Switzerland's literary landscape, Max Frisch occupies a significant position. Homo Faber is both a personal artistic statement and a contribution to a tradition shaped by the country's history and cultural concerns.
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
Max Frisch
Switzerland
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Max Frisch is a Switzerland author whose work in literary fiction has earned recognition from readers and critics alike.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Homo Faber about?

Homo Faber is a seminal work of 20th-century literature that delves into themes of technology, fate, and existentialism. The novel follows Walter Faber, an engineer whose rational worldview is challenged by a series of personal and emotional upheavals. Frisch's exploration of the conflict between technology and humanity remains relevant, making it a cornerstone of Swiss literature.

Who wrote Homo Faber?

Homo Faber was written by Max Frisch, from Switzerland. First published in 1957.

What awards has Homo Faber won?

Homo Faber has received the following recognition: notable critical recognition.

Is Homo Faber worth reading?

Homo Faber 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 technology vs. humanity, fate, existentialism.

Where can I buy Homo Faber?

You can buy Homo Faber on Amazon. Click the Buy on Amazon button above to find the best edition.

What category is Homo Faber?

Homo Faber is classified as Literary Fiction. Character-driven fiction that prioritises style, theme, and psychological depth.

What country is Homo Faber from?

Homo Faber originates from Switzerland's literary tradition. Explore more books from Switzerland on our country page.

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