34 pages • 1 hour read
R.U.R.
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Book Brief
64
Play • Fiction
Remote Island • Future
1920
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In R.U.R., Karel Čapek imagines a future world where robots serve as the workforce for humanity, developed by Rossum's Universal Robots. When the robots revolt, led by a malfunctioning robot named Radius, they annihilate nearly all humans except Alquist, who struggles with the secret of robot creation. The play explores themes of humanity, love, and the ethics of creation, culminating in a hopeful moment as two robots embody human qualities.
Mysterious
Dark
Contemplative
Melancholic
Reviews & Readership
15,539 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Karel Čapek's play R.U.R. is widely praised for introducing the term "robot" and offering prophetic insights into automation and its societal impacts. Positive reviews commend its inventive narrative and philosophical depth. Criticisms include a somewhat dated writing style and occasional melodrama. Overall, it's a thought-provoking classic in science fiction and theater.
Who Should Read R.U.R.?
Fans of dystopian fiction and thought-provoking science fiction will enjoy Karel Čapek's R.U.R.. Similar to readers of H.G. Wells' The Time Machine or Aldous Huxley's Brave New World, this play offers a compelling exploration of robotics, ethics, and the potential consequences of technological advancement.
15,539 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
64
Play • Fiction
Remote Island • Future
1920
Adult
18+ years
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