50 pages • 1 hour read
The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia
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Book Brief
The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1759224
Novel • Fiction
Ethiopia • 18th century
1759
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia by Samuel Johnson follows Prince Rasselas of Abyssinia, who, feeling dissatisfied with the luxurious yet confining "happy valley," escapes with his mentor Imlac, his sister Nekayah, and her maid Pekuah. Together, they explore the world, especially Cairo, engaging in discussions about different lifestyles and philosophies to discover the nature of true happiness. Through various encounters, they realize that no single way of life guarantees fulfillment, ultimately returning to Abyssinia with a deeper understanding of human nature and the complexities of seeking happiness.
Contemplative
Melancholic
Reviews & Readership
6,670 ratings
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Review Roundup
Samuel Johnson's The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia offers deep philosophical insights into human happiness and the quest for fulfillment, but some readers find its prose archaic and its narrative structure less engaging. Nonetheless, Johnson's work is celebrated for its intellectual depth and moral reflections, making it a valuable read for those interested in 18th-century literature.
Who Should Read The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia?
A reader who enjoys The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia by Samuel Johnson would likely appreciate philosophical novels that explore human nature and happiness. Fans of Voltaire’s Candide or Thomas More’s Utopia would find this reflective journey into human desires and fulfillment compelling, due to its introspective and satirical themes.
6,670 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Imlac
Imlac
A learned traveler and scholar who becomes Rasselas's mentor, offering wisdom and guidance during their philosophical exploration of the world outside the Happy Valley.
Nekayah
Nekayah
Rasselas's sister, who shares his longing to explore beyond the confines of the Happy Valley and gains broader insights into happiness and human relationships through their journey.
Pekuah
Pekuah
Nekayah’s maid, whose subplot involves a dramatic incident that introduces themes of fear, freedom, and cultural understanding, offering additional perspectives on life's unpredictability.
224
Novel • Fiction
Ethiopia • 18th century
1759
Adult
18+ years
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