Gabriel García Márquez's Love in the Time of Cholera is a masterful exploration of enduring love and obsession, set against a vibrant historical backdrop. Critics praise its lyrical prose and rich character development. However, some find the pacing slow and the themes occasionally repetitious. Overall, it remains a celebrated work of magical realism.

A reader who enjoys Love in the Time of Cholera by Gabriel García Márquez likely appreciates epic, multi-decade love stories rich with magical realism. Fans of Isabel Allende's The House of the Spirits or Salman Rushdie’s Midnight's Children might be drawn to its lush prose and intricate exploration of human emotions and relationships.

Love in the Time of Cholera by Gabriel García Márquez, originally published in 1985, tells the story of a love triangle in late-1800s to early-1900s Colombia, involving Fermina Daza, her husband Dr. Juvenal Urbino, and her first love, Florentino Ariza. After Urbino's death, Florentino professes his undying love, leading to a rekindled romance despite their advanced age.

Romantic / Melancholic / Bittersweet / Nostalgic / Contemplative

- Gabriel García Márquez was inspired to write Love in the Time of Cholera partly by observing his own parents' courtship, which involved exchanges of letters and a long period of separation and waiting.
- The novel was first published in Spanish in 1985, and it then gained widespread acclaim in the English-speaking world with its translation, contributing significantly to Márquez's reputation as a master of magical realism.
- A film adaptation of Love in the Time of Cholera was released in 2007, directed by Mike Newell, with a soundtrack that featured songs by renowned musician Shakira, who was a fan of Márquez’s work.

**Fermina Daza**  
The protagonist whose life journey with love spans from youthful illusions to mature understandings. She is strong-willed and has a fondness for animals, which balances her temperament.

**Dr. Juvenal Urbino**  
A renowned doctor of great prestige who engages in public works and appreciates the arts. His pragmatic approach to love contrasts with the passionate relationships around him. 

**Florentino Ariza**  
A devoted and persistent lover, he experiences a variety of romantic and physical relationships throughout his life. Florentino works his way from modest beginnings to a respected position in society.

**Jeremiah de Saint-Amour**  
A close friend of Urbino, whose mysterious death introduces key themes of the novel. His life is marked by hidden truths and personal secrets.

**Tránsito Ariza**  
Florentino's dedicated mother who owns a notions shop, benefiting from wealthy women's misfortunes. Her ambition and devotion significantly impact Florentino's life.

**Hildebranda Sánchez**  
Fermina Daza’s cousin who shares a similar narrative of young, forbidden love. Her actions play an important role in Fermina's personal journey.

**Lorenzo Daza**  
Fermina’s unscrupulous father, whose past as an exiled soldier influences his drive to elevate his daughter's social standing.

**Leona Cassiani**  
Florentino's loyal assistant, whose initial encounter with him was mistakenly believed to be of a different nature. Her character illustrates a platonic and loyal aspect of relationships.

**América Vicuña**  
A young ward of Florentino who becomes entangled in a complex relationship reflecting the consequences of fleeting affections.

**Barbara Lynch**  
A Doctor of Theology who becomes Dr. Urbino’s lover, challenging the stability of Fermina's marriage. Barbara's relationship with Urbino is intricate and instrumental in the narrative.

**Uncle Leo XII**  
Head of the riverboat company who serves as a mentor to Florentino. His wisdom on love and life contributes to Florentino’s development and success.

Gabriel García Márquez

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Section 6 Love in the Time of Cholera Section 6 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

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