Catch-22 by Joseph Heller is a satirical novel that remains a classic of the genre even 50 years after its initial publication. Set during the height of World War II, the book follows the absurdly comic adventures of the fictional American 256th Squadron, following the squadron's hero Yossarian, among others, as they strive to survive the war.
The novel’s title, “Catch-22”, refers to a paradoxical rule created by Heller’s fictional air force command. It states that anyone who wants to be excused from combat duty must be declared insane, yet anyone willing to fly in combat must clearly be sane. The book illustrates the illogical, self-defeating efforts of the characters to escape the banal violence of war and the humor with which they approach the absurd situation is a major element of the plot.
The novel follows Yossarian, the “hero” of the book and primary protagonist, and several other prominent characters as they become increasingly aware of the Catch-22. Yossarian is a battle-hardened air force bombardier whose prime directive is to stay alive, even at the expense of his friends. He comes to see the world as a thoroughly callous place, a sort of “Mad Medical Circus” of surreal violence and folly. He presides over the chaos surrounding him with the gritty cynicism he’s picked up from years in the war.
Yossarian is surrounded by a number of characters, some more prominent than others, whose purpose is to provide insight into other levels and effects of war. Examples include: Doc Daneeka, whose lines of perception regarding catch-22 offer an interesting juxtaposition to Yossarian's; Milo Minderbinder, who through sheer avarice and ambition rises to the rank of syndicate runner and Colonel Cathcart, who’s ambition is solely concerned with rising to the rank of General. All of these characters, and more, provide interesting points of view on the conflict, particularly as each one wrestles with how to survive in the grips of the war.
Throughout the book, Heller introduces dozens of Catch-22s that further his message in the novel, that of the chaos and absurdity of war being ultimately futile and devastating. Yossarian takes a great risk in avoiding combat and staying alive, and the book’s climax occurs when all of his work catches up with him. Yossarian must decide if he will continue to fight and risk death, or if he will submit and be flown home.
Although Catch-22 is a satire of war, it also serves as an evaluation of human nature. Heller demonstrates how greed, ambition, and fear of death are universal human characteristics that can be used to control and manipulate people. He also shows how personal ambition can lead to terrible decisions, even in wartime.
Despite being published more than 50 years ago, the novel remains as poignant, relevant, and entertaining as it was when it first graced the shelves. It has been hailed as a “modern classic” and continues to be taught in classrooms and book clubs around the world. Although some of the language and topics may be dated, the book’s message - that of the senselessness of war - is still as relevant today as it ever was.
