Herzog

Herzog Summary | Chapter 1 Summary

The setting for this story is an unstable one. Moses Herzog moves from town to town with his many relationships, jobs and wives. His work life is in a downward spiral thanks to his recent ex-wife, Madeleine. She insisted when they married that Herzog quit teaching and move to the country. When this did not make her happy, they moved to Chicago so Herzog could teach again. Madeleine insisted they take their neighbors, the Gersbachs, with them. One year later, Madeleine divorced Herzog and began a relationship with Valentine Gersbach.

Herzog teaches college level courses in Romanticism and receives grants to continue his studies. He received $15,000 over several years to finish a paper on Romanticism and Christianity. When the story takes place, Herzog's paper is in the bottom of his closet, unfinished.

Herzog is slowly becoming detached from reality. The author uses letters to show the reader that he lives mostly in his head. This detachment, and Herzog's feelings that someone else is taking over his body, mind and life sends him to the doctor. The doctor feels Herzog needs to relax and wants to prescribe sleeping pills. Herzog refuses all the doctor's suggestions but one, a vacation.

Herzog decides to call an old friend, Libby Vane. Libby and he had once considered having an affair but decided against it. They remain good friends instead. Libby tells Herzog he can stay as long as he likes. He feels awkward about this but accepts the invitation anyway. He even gets new clothes that are "light" in color and weight for his vacation. Herzog wants to fit into the relaxed lifestyle, and maybe he will actually feel relaxed.