The Citizen of the World
The Citizen of the World
Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | YA | Published in 1762
Book Brief
The Citizen of the World
Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | YA | Published in 1762144
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
London, England • 1760s
1762
YA
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Citizen of the World by Oliver Goldsmith is a collection of letters written by Lien Chi Altangi, a fictional Chinese visitor to London, who critiques contemporary British culture and trade relations through witty and ironic observations. These letters, published between 1760 and 1761, compare British, Dutch, and South Eastern Asian customs, exposing themes like the fleeting nature of human passion and inconstancy while highlighting cultural conceptions.
Humorous
Informative
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
The Citizen of the World by Oliver Goldsmith offers readers a satirical glimpse into 18th-century society through the eyes of a Chinese philosopher. Praised for its wit and insight, the work combines humor with critique. Still, some readers find its period-specific references challenging. Overall, it's a thought-provoking read with historical charm and clever commentary.
Who Should Read The Citizen of the World?
The Citizen of the World by Oliver Goldsmith appeals to readers of 18th-century satire, social commentary, and cultural critique. Fans of works like Jonathan Swift's Gulliver's Travels or Montesquieu's Persian Letters will appreciate Goldsmith's wit and incisive observations on British society through the lens of a fictional Chinese philosopher.
144
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
London, England • 1760s
1762
YA
18+ years
We’re just getting started
Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!