Nausea, published in 1938 by Jean-Paul Sartre, is a philosophical novel that explores profound feelings of isolation and disconnection. The protagonist, Antoine Roquentin, lives in a fictional town called Bouville, which is very similar to the real town of Le Havre. He has come to Bouville to write a biography of a historical figure, but during his time there, he has discovered intense and troubling sensations that he labels 'the Nausea.' This sensation makes everyday life seem strange, unbearable, and detached from reality. As Roquentin writes in his personal diary, he reflects on his thoughts, feelings, and the events surrounding him, which leads him to question his own identity. Sartre's writing style is dense and reflective, encouraging readers to deeply engage with existential questions about life and meaning. The book's themes are significant because they touch on emotional struggles and human loneliness in a confusing world. If readers take the time to explore these themes, they may find themselves confronting their own feelings about existence and reality. Even today, 'Nausea' holds importance for those interested in philosophy, psychology, and the human experience. Its impact resonates with readers who seek to understand themselves and their place in the world.
B1 · Intermediate · 198 words · ~1 min
Word notebook · B1
Tap a highlighted word in the text, or study the list below.
- existentialist
- a philosophy that explores questions about existence and meaning.
- melancholic
- feeling sad or depressed, often without a clear reason.
- alienation
- a feeling of being isolated or separated from others.
- disillusionment
- a feeling of disappointment when something is not as good as expected.
- sensation
- a feeling that is caused by something you experience.
- intense
- very strong or extreme.
- perceptions
- the way in which someone thinks about or understands something.
Comprehension check · B1
Finished reading? See how much stuck.
1.What is the main feeling that Antoine Roquentin experiences in the novel?
2.What does Roquentin do in Bouville?
3.Why is 'Nausea' significant today?
















































