Catch-22 by Joseph Heller Summary

Catch-22 is a satirical World War II novel following Captain John Yossarian, a bombardier trapped in a paradoxical military rule: pilots can avoid dangerous missions if declared insane, but requesting exemption proves sanity. The story critiques war bureaucracy and explores themes of absurdity, survival, and the futility of institutional logic.

This novel suits readers of dark comedy, anti-war literature, and existential philosophy. Fans of satire like Slaughterhouse-Five or 1984 will appreciate its critique of bureaucracy and human irrationality. It’s also ideal for those interested in iconic literary phrases, as “Catch-22” entered vernacular usage.

Yes—it’s a landmark 20th-century novel celebrated for its inventive structure, dark humor, and enduring critique of institutional absurdity. Its exploration of paradoxical logic remains relevant to modern discussions of bureaucracy and mental health.

The term refers to a self-contradictory military rule: pilots can avoid combat if mentally unfit, but fearing death proves rationality, forcing them to fly. This paradox symbolizes the absurdity of bureaucratic systems and no-win scenarios.

Yossarian is the protagonist, a B-25 bombardier desperate to survive WWII. His escalating paranoia and refusal to accept senseless missions highlight the novel’s themes of individual vs. institutional insanity.

• Bureaucratic absurdity: Rules like Catch-22 trap characters in irrational loops.
• Survival vs. duty: Yossarian’s prioritization of life over patriotism challenges wartime heroism.
• The illusion of sanity: Characters’ “rational” actions often mask deeper madness.

Heller flew 60 missions as a bombardier, mirroring Yossarian’s role. His exposure to military inefficiency and existential dread shaped the novel’s critique of war’s futility.

The fragmented timeline reflects the chaos and irrationality of war, forcing readers to piece together events and confront the disjointed reality experienced by soldiers.

Unlike linear war narratives, Catch-22 uses satire and circular logic to highlight systemic absurdity rather than battlefield horror. It contrasts with gritty works like All Quiet on the Western Front by focusing on psychological survival.

• “He was going to live forever, or die in the attempt.”
  Highlights Yossarian’s survival obsession.
• “Just because you’re paranoid doesn’t mean they aren’t after you.”
  Blurs rationality and delusion, central to the novel’s themes.

Some critique its repetitive structure and lack of emotional depth in side characters. Others argue its satire oversimplifies war’s complexities, though this exaggeration serves its thematic goals.

Its exploration of bureaucratic paradoxes resonates in modern contexts like corporate policies, government red tape, and mental health stigma. The term “Catch-22” remains shorthand for unwinnable dilemmas.