50 pages • 1 hour read
Samuel JohnsonThe History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1759A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
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
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.
RecommendedReading Age
18+yearsLexile Level
1240L