Plot summary, “The Siege of Krishnapur” by J.G. Farrell in 5 Minutes - Book Review

“The Siege of Krishnapur“ is a historical novel written by J.G. Farrell, first published in 1973. Set during the Indian Rebellion of 1857, also known as the Sepoy Mutiny, the book explores the effects of the uprising on the fictional British outpost of Krishnapur in northern India. The story revolves around the residents of Krishnapur, including British colonial officials, military officers, and civilians, who find themselves besieged by rebel forces outside the fortified walls of the town. As the siege progresses, the inhabitants face numerous challenges and hardships, both physical and psychological. Farrell uses the siege as a backdrop to examine the clash between colonialism and the indigenous culture, as well as to explore themes of power, identity, and human nature. The characters in the novel are confronted with the breakdown of their perceived superiority and face the harsh realities of war. The British residents, initially filled with a sense of invincibility and a belief in their
Back to Top