The novel, Catch-22, was first published in 1961 by Joseph Heller. The novel tells the story of Captain Joseph Yossarian and his attempt to avoid serving in World War II by pleading insanity. However, Yossarian is thwarted by the doctor's argument that if he were truly mad then he ... -22" came to mean "a proviso that trips one up no matter which way one turns." Joseph Heller was born on May 1, 1923 to Russian immigrant parents and from an early age aspired to be a writer. When Heller was just five years old, his father died at work. Heller, his brother, and their mother had to fend for thems...

• Word Count: 587
• Approx Pages: 2
• Grade Level: High School

... of society. War is ridiculous; and the major effects that occur in war are likewise absurd, which includes, man's actions during combat. Joseph Heller uses a comical in style and language, which he portrays in Catch-22 and introduces the reader as it is one of a grim world's ... them scornfully for their failure to follow him. Who ever did not sign the Oath where bullied, insulted, harassed and they were denied food (Heller 183). Ironically, Captain Black brings upon his own destruction when he invites Major de Coverly. Strangely enough, the Major is described as a god ... the war wit...

• Word Count: 1153
• Approx Pages: 5
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: High School

... -so-heroic protagonist who struggles to deal with the insanity of war and concludes that the only sane response to it is not to participate in it II. Author Information A. Joseph Heller 1. may 1, 1923 2. Brooklyn New York 3. Died December 12, 1999 in east Hampton CT 4. 1949- Oxford University 5. 1949-1950 Military wartime service 6. U.S. air force B-52 Bombardier 7. Developed and later overcame the ... ...

• Word Count: 330
• Approx Pages: 1
• Grade Level: High School