Beatrice and Virgil

Beatrice and Virgil is Yann Martel's allegorical novel that employs animal characters and a play-like structure to examine the Holocaust's representation and the moral complexities of narrating atrocity.

Martel conducted extensive research into Holocaust representation while writing it, similar to his research for Son of Nobody's Homeric world.

The novel features a taxidermist and a writer collaborating on a play starring animals, using fable to grapple with trauma, memory, and artistic responsibility.

Critics noted its ambitious moral inquiry and formal experimentation, which continue Martel's interest in the interplay between story and truth.

In the podcast, Martel cites it as part of his pattern of immersive research across different subject matters.