What Is the Prague Cemetery About?

By Michael Ferguson

The Prague Cemetery is a novel written by the famous Italian author, Umberto Eco. This historical fiction is set in the late 19th century and revolves around a character named Simonini, who is a forger and an expert in creating false documents.

The Plot

The story begins with Simonini’s arrival in Paris, where he meets his friend Abbé Dalla Piccola. Together, they start working on the creation of a document that falsely accuses the Jewish people of planning to take over the world. This document, known as The Protocols of the Elders of Zion, becomes a major tool for anti-Semitic propaganda.

Simonini’s Character

Simonini is not just any ordinary forger; he is a master of his craft and has spent years perfecting his skills. He uses his talents to manipulate people and events to suit his own needs. He is also incredibly racist and deeply anti-Semitic, which makes him an ideal partner for Abbé Dalla Piccola.

The Historical Context

The novel takes place during a time when Europe was going through significant changes. The rise of nationalism and anti-Semitism was prevalent throughout the continent, and this provided fertile ground for individuals like Simonini to thrive.

The Themes

One of the main themes of The Prague Cemetery is the power of propaganda. Eco shows how false information can be used to manipulate people into believing something that isn’t true. Another key theme is prejudice; Simonini’s character showcases how deeply ingrained racism can be in an individual.

The Reception

The Prague Cemetery received mixed reviews upon its release. Some critics praised Eco’s ability to weave historical facts into a fictional narrative seamlessly, while others found it too dense and confusing.

Conclusion

In conclusion, The Prague Cemetery is an engaging and thought-provoking novel that explores the power of propaganda and prejudice. Eco’s masterful storytelling and use of historical facts make this novel an excellent read for anyone interested in European history or historical fiction.