Summary of the work - Sykalo Eugen 2023

Short summary - The Death of Artemio Cruz by Carlos Fuentes

The Death of Artemio Cruz is a fascinating novel that is concerned with the life of one man, Artemio Cruz, who is on his deathbed. He looks back on his life, and the reader is taken on a journey through Cruz's life, starting from his humble beginnings in a small Mexican village to his rise to power as a politician and business tycoon. The novel is divided into three parts, each focusing on a different period in Cruz's life, and each part of the book is crucial in conveying the author's message.

In the first part, the reader is introduced to Cruz as a young man, fighting in the Mexican Revolution. The author skillfully portrays the brutality and violence of war and the corrupt nature of those in power. It is during this time that Cruz meets his first love, Regina, a woman who will have a significant impact on his life. The author uses this relationship to highlight the contrast between the idealism of youth and the cynicism of old age.

The second part of the book takes place in the 1940s, where Cruz is a wealthy and powerful businessman, involved in politics and corrupt dealings. We see the lengths to which Cruz will go to maintain his power and wealth, even if it means betraying those closest to him. It is during this time that Cruz reflects on his past and realizes the mistakes he has made. The author uses this part of the book to show the consequences of the pursuit of power and wealth, and how it can lead to corruption and moral decay.

The final part of the book takes place in the present, with Cruz on his deathbed. Through his reflections, we see the consequences of his actions and the impact they have had on those around him. We see the ultimate price he has paid for his pursuit of power and wealth. The author uses this part of the book to show the importance of acknowledging one's mistakes and taking responsibility for one's actions.

Throughout the book, Fuentes uses various literary techniques to convey the themes of power, corruption, and the consequences of one's actions. The use of flashbacks and shifts in narrative perspective give the reader a deeper understanding of Cruz's character and the events that have shaped his life. The author also uses symbolism to reinforce the themes of the novel. For example, the character of Regina represents the idealism and innocence of youth, while Cruz represents the cynicism and corruption of old age.

One of the key moments in the book is when Cruz realizes the mistakes he has made and the impact they have had on those around him. It is a moment of clarity, but it comes at the cost of his life. This moment serves as a reminder that actions have consequences, and the pursuit of power and wealth can come at a great cost. The author uses this moment to show the importance of self-reflection and the consequences of ignoring one's mistakes.

In conclusion, The Death of Artemio Cruz is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that explores the themes of power, corruption, and the consequences of one's actions. Fuentes' use of literary techniques and his masterful storytelling create a vivid and compelling narrative that will leave a lasting impression on the reader. The novel is a must-read for anyone interested in the human condition and the pursuit of power and wealth.