Plot summary, “A Severed Head” by Iris Murdoch in 6 Minutes - Book Review

“A Severed Head“ is a novel by Iris Murdoch that follows the complicated love affairs of a group of affluent, intellectual characters in London. The protagonist, Martin, is a middle-aged man who is having an affair with his wife’s best friend, Palmer. When his wife, Antonia, reveals that she is having an affair with Palmer’s husband, the relationships among the group become increasingly tangled and dysfunctional. As the story unfolds, the characters must grapple with their own desires and the consequences of their actions. The novel explores themes of love, desire, betrayal, and morality. With its complex characters and intricate plot, “A Severed Head“ is a gripping psychological drama that offers a nuanced portrait of human relationships.