City of God by E. L. Doctorow presents a thought-provoking mosaic of philosophical reflections and interconnected narratives. Reviewers praise its ambitious structure and lyrical prose but note its complexity and abstract themes can alienate some readers. Doctorow's stylistic experimentation impresses, though it sometimes sacrifices narrative coherence, making for a challenging but rewarding read.

A reader who enjoys intellectually stimulating, genre-blending narratives will appreciate City of God by E. L. Doctorow. Fans of Don DeLillo's Underworld or Thomas Pynchon's Gravity's Rainbow will find its exploration of existential themes and fragmented storytelling rewarding. Suitable for those who relish complex, thought-provoking literature.

City of God by E. L. Doctorow is a metafictional novel exploring themes of faith, morality, and history through the fragmented writings of Everett, a character loosely based on the author. The plot focuses on the intertwining lives of an Episcopalian priest, a radical Jewish couple, and their collective search for meaning after a stolen cross surfaces. Content includes references to the Holocaust and wartime atrocities.

Contemplative / Mysterious / Emotional / Challenging

E. L. Doctorow

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore City of God reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read City of God | SuperSummary

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore City of God and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

City of God Summary and Study Guide

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Pages 1-46

City of God Pages 1-46 Summary & Analysis

Pages 47-92

City of God Pages 47-92 Summary & Analysis

Pages 92-124

City of God Pages 92-124 Summary & Analysis

Pages 124-166

City of God Pages 124-166 Summary & Analysis

Pages 167-205

City of God Pages 167-205 Summary & Analysis

Pages 206-235

City of God Pages 206-235 Summary & Analysis

Pages 235-272

City of God Pages 235-272 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

City of God Character Analysis

theme

Themes

City of God Themes

Symbols & Motifs

City of God Symbols & Motifs

quote

citation

Important Quotes

City of God Important Quotes

primaryCharacter

Essay Topics

City of God Essay Topics

City of God

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read City of God?

Reading Age

Book Details