Iris Murdoch's The Bell is widely regarded for its intricate exploration of human relationships and moral complexities. Critics praise its compelling characters and philosophical depth. However, some find the plot meandering and the dense prose challenging. Nevertheless, it stands as a profound and thought-provoking read, showcasing Murdoch's literary prowess.

A reader who would enjoy Iris Murdoch's The Bell is likely to appreciate complex character studies and moral dilemmas. Fans of literary fiction like Virginia Woolf's To the Lighthouse or E.M. Forster's A Room with a View will find Murdoch's exploration of human relationships and existential questions captivating.

In Iris Murdoch's The Bell, young arrivals Dora and Toby join a lay religious community near a convent, each grappling with personal challenges as a new bell's arrival stirs the group's dynamics. Dora seeks independence from her husband, Michael struggles with his sexual identity, and Toby plans a prank involving an old submerged bell, leading to transformative events for everyone involved. This novel references an inappropriate relationship between a teacher and a student.

Contemplative / Mysterious / Melancholic / Emotional / Bittersweet

- The Bell was published in 1958 and is one of Iris Murdoch's earlier novels, marking her as a significant voice in 20th-century literature.
- The novel explores themes characteristic of Murdoch's work, such as moral ambiguity and the complexity of human relationships, set against the backdrop of a closed religious community.
- Murdoch's exploration of philosophical and ethical issues in The Bell reflects her own background as a philosopher, adding depth to the novel's character dynamics.

**Dora Greenfield**  
A young woman from a modest London background, feeling trapped in a stifling marriage and seeking personal independence and fulfillment. She is an art student who grapples with her emotions and desires as she navigates complex relationships.

**Michael Meade**  
A man with religious aspirations, facing inner conflict due to his past and his concealed sexuality. He leads a lay community at Imber Court while struggling with his emotions and choices from a pivotal relationship in his youth.

**Toby Gashe**  
An enthusiastic and open-minded teenager interested in religion and community life, visiting Imber Court for the first time. He undergoes growth and self-discovery as he questions aspects of his identity and beliefs.

**Nick Fawley**  
A troubled young man with a sophisticated air, struggling with his personal demons and past experiences. His presence at Imber Court is marked by tension with several characters and contributes to his internal and external conflicts.

Iris Murdoch

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore The Bell reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read The Bell | SuperSummary

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore The Bell 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.

The Bell Summary and Study Guide

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-5

The Bell Chapters 1-5 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 6-11

The Bell Chapters 6-11 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 12-16

The Bell Chapters 12-16 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 17-22

The Bell Chapters 17-22 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 23-26

The Bell Chapters 23-26 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

The Bell Character Analysis

theme

Themes

The Bell Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Bell Symbols & Motifs

quote

citation

Important Quotes

The Bell Important Quotes

primaryCharacter

Essay Topics

The Bell Essay Topics

The Bell

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The Bell?

Reading Age

Book Details