The Third Man / The Fallen Idol – Graham Greene

A gripping double feature of suspense and moral ambiguity, The Third Man / The Fallen Idol brings together two of Graham Greene’s most iconic stories, both adapted into acclaimed films by director Carol Reed.

Two tales of deception and disillusionment

Set in post-war Vienna, The Third Man follows writer Holly Martins as he investigates the mysterious death of his friend Harry Lime. What begins as a simple inquiry soon unravels into a chilling exploration of betrayal, black market dealings, and the shadows of war. Greene’s atmospheric prose and sharp dialogue make this novella a masterclass in noir storytelling.

The Fallen Idol, on the other hand, is a psychological drama told through the eyes of a child. Young Philip idolizes the family butler, Baines, but when he witnesses a troubling incident, his world of trust and innocence begins to collapse. Greene’s ability to capture the fragility of perception and the complexity of adult motives is on full display.

Genre and themes

• Genre: Literary fiction / Thriller / Psychological drama
• Themes: Betrayal, innocence, post-war Europe, moral ambiguity, perception vs. reality
• Style: Tense, cinematic, introspective

Why read this book?

• Includes two of Greene’s most celebrated short works
• Basis for the classic films The Third Man (1949) and The Fallen Idol (1948)
• A perfect introduction to Greene’s signature blend of suspense and moral complexity
• Compact and compelling storytelling with lasting impact

About the author:

Graham Greene (1904–1991) was one of the most influential British writers of the 20th century. Known for his “entertainments” and literary novels alike, Greene explored themes of politics, religion, and human frailty. His works include The Quiet American, Brighton Rock, and The End of the Affair. He was nominated several times for the Nobel Prize in Literature and remains widely read and studied.

Reception in the press:

• The Third Man is widely regarded as one of the greatest British thrillers ever written, praised for its atmosphere and moral tension.
• The Fallen Idol has been lauded for its psychological depth and nuanced portrayal of childhood innocence.
• Both stories were adapted into award-winning films, with The Third Man winning the Grand Prix at Cannes and being voted the greatest British film of the 20th century by the BFI.

Product Information:

Title: The Third Man / The Fallen Idol
Author: Graham Greene
Publisher: Penguin Books
ISBN: 0-14-003278-9
Language: English
Binding: Paperback/pocket
Pages: 160
Illustrations: No
Edition: 1981
Dimensions: 18,1 x 11,1 x 1,1 cm
Weight: ca. 250 grams
Condition: Good condition – minor signs of age and use; handwritten name on endpaper
EAN: 9780140032786
Categories: Fiction, Thriller, Literary Classics

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