V for Vendetta by Alan Moore captivates with its gripping dystopian narrative and deep political commentary. The artwork and storyline are often praised for their complexity and emotional depth. However, some find the plot dense and characters difficult to connect with. Overall, it remains a powerful and provocative read that challenges societal norms.

MLA

A reader who revels in dystopian narratives and themes of political rebellion, much like those explored in George Orwell's 1984 or Margaret Atwood's The Handmaid's Tale, would find Alan Moore's V for Vendetta compelling. The graphic novel's intricate plot and dark, thought-provoking illustrations appeal to mature audiences who appreciate complex storytelling.

In a dystopian 1997 Britain ruled by the fascist Norsefire regime, a masked anarchist named V saves a teen girl named Evey from an attempted rape and recruits her as his protégée. V embarks on a vendetta against the regime, targeting key figures while inspiring the citizens to rise against their oppressors, culminating in a quest for freedom and autonomy. The book contains violence, sexual violence, and intolerance.

Mysterious / Dark / Suspenseful / Gritty / Challenging

- Alan Moore initially wrote V for Vendetta as a black-and-white strip for a British anthology comic called Warrior, which ceased publication before the story was completed.
- The iconic Guy Fawkes mask worn by the character V has become a symbol of protest and resistance, widely popularized by the hacktivist group Anonymous and various global protests.
- David Lloyd, the illustrator of V for Vendetta, suggested the idea of V wearing a Guy Fawkes mask, which he believed would be a powerful image due to its historical and cultural connotations.

Alan Moore

Adult

Graphic Novel/Book

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore V for Vendetta and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

V for Vendetta Summary and Study Guide

Background

V for Vendetta Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Book 1: “England After the Reign”

Book 1, Chapters 1-5

V for Vendetta Book 1, Chapters 1-5 Summary & Analysis

Book 1, Chapters 6-11

V for Vendetta Book 1, Chapters 6-11 Summary & Analysis

Book 2

V for Vendetta Book 2 Summary & Analysis

Book 3: “The Land of Do-As-You-Please”

Book 3

V for Vendetta Book 3 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

V for Vendetta Character Analysis

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Themes

V for Vendetta Themes

Symbols & Motifs

V for Vendetta Symbols & Motifs

Literary Devices

V for Vendetta Literary Devices

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Important Quotes

V for Vendetta Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

V for Vendetta Essay Topics

V for Vendetta Further Reading & Resources

V for Vendetta

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read V for Vendetta?

Reading Age

Book Details