Joseph Heller collection, 1945-1969 | Brandeis University

Scope and Contents: The materials in this collection were created between 1945 and 1969. They include complete sets of manuscripts of several novels, plays, screenplays, correspondence, published editions, and reviews. Of chief importance is the autograph manuscript of "Catch-22," which shows several stages of revisions, from the early stages to the final versions, and the important editorial relationship Heller had with his editor, Robert Gottlieb. The collection also includes the manuscripts for the TV series "McHale's Navy," and for the play "We Bombed in New Haven." In addition, this collection includes signed first editions and translations of "Catch-22" into several languages. The files are organized by title with subseries of manuscripts, correspondence, background material, and reviews. Series III, "We Bombed in New Haven," is organized chronologically.