Revisiting Saul Bellow’s Herzog through the Dual Lens of Anti-Heroism and Universal Humanity: A Critical Study

This article explores the coexistence of contradictions and paradoxes—universal humanity and anti-heroic traits—in Moses Herzog, the anti-hero in Saul Bellow’s acclaimed novel, Herzog. This study adopts a qualitative research approach, analyzing various studies on Bellow’s works and proposing renewed insights into Herzog as a symbol of universal humanity. In keeping with the goals, this study examines Herzog, the title character, through the dual lens of anti-heroism and universal humanity, delving into his flaws, errors, contradictions, and conflicts that resonate with his psychological alienation, moral crises, and emotional vulnerabilities. This study unveils how Herzog transforms over time from his delusion to disillusionment through errors and experiences, representing both his anti-heroic characteristics and universal humanity. The findings reveal that Herzog, as a human being, possesses fundamental traits that all human beings share—the desire for belonging and community, creativity, curiosity, human rights, and shared emotions. These elements in his character represent his deeply flawed nature and shared human conditions. While he has many flaws and errors as an antihero, he shows the aspects of universal human nature that transcend the individual to the broader human condition. These findings aim to enhance our understanding of Herzog, who simultaneously seeks love and belonging while embodying the flawed impulses of an antihero.