Comical in style and language, the message that Catch-22 introduces to its reader is one of a grim world's decay. Heller's fictional story portrays absurd characters and situations, but the underlying theme of human decadence is clearly visible, especially in the last portion of the book. Heller's attitude towards his characters also gives way to an overwhelming tone of pity and sorrow for the world and its population. The overall theme of the novel depicts a decline in individuality, decay of human moral, and a certain loss of awareness of both surrounding events and personal action. The wart...

• Word Count: 1459
• Approx Pages: 6
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: Undergraduate

... with the engineer), to dark(the engineer's ironic death), and returning to light humour again(Corelli being dug out of the trench). Carlo's analysis adds to the satirical edge: "He died happy, you can't ask any more than that. But he won't be collecting any more bets ... used throughout, and is therefore an integral part of the novel. Religion is used in Captain Corelli's Mandolin for similar satirical effects as in Catch-22. The chapter "Bunnios"(46), which involve the English spy mistaken for an "angel" by the unintelligent Alekos, provides a highly amusing account of ... Arsenios; bei...

• Word Count: 2754
• Approx Pages: 11
• Grade Level: Undergraduate