Literary Fiction· Spain
The Time of the Doves
by Mercè RodoredaAggregate Editorial Score30/100
Published 1962Catalan
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The Time of the Doves by Mercè Rodoreda is a landmark work of literary fiction, first published in 1962. Set in Barcelona during the Spanish Civil War, this novel follows the life of Natalia, a young woman navigating personal and political upheaval. Rodoreda's lyrical prose captures the emotional depth and resilience of her protagonist, making it a seminal work in Catalan literature. Themes of war and conflict, identity, love and loss run through the work.
Book Details
About the Category
📖 Literary Fiction
Character-driven fiction that prioritises style, theme, and psychological depth.
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🇪🇸 Spain
This book is part of Spain's rich literary tradition.
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Mercè Rodoreda's "The Time of the Doves" masterfully intertwines the themes of memory, identity, and the ravages of war, weaving a poignant narrative through the eyes of its protagonist, Natalia. Set against the backdrop of the Spanish Civil War, Rodoreda's lyrical prose captures the fragility of human connections and the indelible scars left by conflict. This novel stands as a profound meditation on the struggle for self amidst the chaos of history, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of Catalan literature.
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
Mercè Rodoreda is a Spain author whose work in literary fiction has earned recognition from readers and critics alike.
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