50 pages 1 hour read

Samuel Johnson

The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1759

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Before You Read

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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.

Reviews & Readership

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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 this

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.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Lexile Level

1240L

Book Details

Genre

Classic Fiction

Allegory / Fable / Parable

British Literature

Topics

Philosophy

Themes

Emotions/Behavior: Gratitude

Emotions/Behavior: Joy

Society: Community