The citadel

A classic of medical literature, The Citadel is the novel that established AJ Cronin in the literary world.

The Citadel offers a glimpse into the working conditions of doctors in the early 20th century. Through the protagonist, the newly graduated Dr. Andrew Manson, a young idealist and dreamer, the author presents the difficulties of practicing the profession in South Wales, where mining was the main activity, which led to tragedies, whether in accidents or respiratory problems.

Andrew Manson begins his professional journey in a small village called Drineffy, where he dedicates himself passionately to his patients, revealing a more humanitarian and altruistic side to the medical profession. As time passes, he finds new work opportunities and, of course, also finds love, with Professor Christine Barlow. It is in London that Manson faces the biggest questions of his life so far: he comes into contact with the most respected medical profession and the luxuries to which they have access.

Cronin's text in The Citadel highlights the drama of ethical choices in the practice of medicine and the conflict between giving up luxury and comfort for a more humane profession and the wisdom of knowing how to enrich oneself through the profession. These issues are still highly relevant and current, making this work essential for those who practice medicine and also for those who have an ideal to cling to.