Plot summary, “The Day of the Jackal” by Frederick Forsyth in 5 Minutes - Book Review
0"The Day of the Jackal" is a thriller novel written by Frederick Forsyth. It was first published in 1971 and has since become one of Forsyth's most famous and critically acclaimed works. The book tells the story of a professional assassin known as "The Jackal" who is hired to assassinate Charles de Gaulle, the President of France, in the early 1960s.
The novel is set against the backdrop of political tension and unrest in France during that period, particularly due to the Algerian War of Independence. The French government, aware of the threat against de Gaulle's life, deploys their security forces to protect him. However, the Jackal is an expert in his craft and meticulously plans his assassination attempt, relying on his skills, intelligence, and resourcefulness to evade capture.
The narrative of the novel alternates between the perspective of the Jackal and the authorities who are trying to prevent the assassination. The reader follows the Jackal's step-by-step preparations, including obtaining forged documents, securing weapons, and creating a false identity. Meanwhile, a determined and clever police detective named Claude Lebel is assigned to the case and works tirelessly to uncover the Jackal's identity and stop him.
"The Day of the Jackal" is known for its meticulous attention to detail, which is characteristic of Forsyth's writing style. The book incorporates real historical events and includes descriptions of actual locations and political figures, enhancing the realism of the story. Forsyth's background as a journalist and his own experiences covering international conflicts bring a sense of authenticity to the narrative.
The novel builds suspense as the Jackal's plan progresses and Lebel becomes increasingly desperate to prevent the assassination. It explores themes of espionage, political intrigue, and the lengths to which people are willing to go to achieve their goals. The story culminates in a gripping climax as the Jackal's plot nears its execution and Lebel races against time to uncover the truth.
"The Day of the Jackal" received widespread acclaim upon its release and has remained popular over the years. It was adapted into a successful film in 1973, directed by Fred Zinnemann and starring Edward Fox as the Jackal. The book's combination of intricate plotting, realistic details, and high-stakes suspense has made it a classic in the thriller genre.