Lucian's True History
Of Samosata Lucian
Sept 2022 · DigiCat
eBook
56
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About this eBook
In "Lucian's True History," Lucian of Samosata embarks on a satirical and fantastical journey that defies the conventional boundaries of narrative form. Written in the second century CE, this work weaves together elements of science fiction, parody, and philosophical inquiry, as Lucian recounts a voyage to the moon and encounters with fantastical beings and societies. The literary style is characterized by sharp wit and a playful tone that critiques contemporary society, mythological beliefs, and the art of storytelling itself. Set against the backdrop of an increasingly skeptical and intellectually curious Hellenistic world, the narrative serves as both entertainment and a profound commentary on human folly and imagination. Lucian of Samosata, a notable rhetorician, philosopher, and satirist, cultivated a distinctive voice that reverberated through the ages. His background in oratory and a keen interest in the literary traditions of both Greek and Roman cultures equipped him with the tools to question and ridicule the credulousness of his contemporaries. This intellectual environment, combined with his encounters across a diverse cultural landscape, deeply influenced "True History," infusing it with a rich tapestry of ideas and provocations. For readers seeking a stimulating exploration of satire that transcends its temporal context, "Lucian's True History" is a must-read. It invites reflection on the absurdities of human existence while simultaneously captivating with its imaginative scope. Whether you are interested in satire, philosophy, or the evolution of literary genres, this work offers invaluable insights and a delightful journey into the absurd.
About the author
Lucian of Samosata was a pre-eminent Syrian satirist and rhetorician writing in the Attic Greek dialect during the Second Sophistic, a period that spanned the 2nd century AD. Although his exact birth year remains uncertain, estimates place it around AD 125. Lucian's contributions to literature were diverse, but he is most renowned for his scathing wit and the use of the dialogue form to mock superstition, religious practices, and the outlandish tales promoted by some writers of his time. His most celebrated work is perhaps 'Lucian's True History', a fantastical narrative that is often recognized as an antecedent of the modern science fiction genre. In this satirical novel, Lucian describes a journey to the moon, encounters with fictional creatures, and parodied themes from the Odyssey. The narrative was a sardonic rebuke of the fantastical travelogues that were popular in his day, highlighting his penchant for parody and mockery of his contemporaries' credulity. Lucian's literary style was marked by eloquent language, ironic humor, and a clarity of expression that made his writings enduringly influential. His works were seminal in the development of later satirical traditions and continue to be a subject of scholarly interest for their insight into the cultural and intellectual currents of antiquity.
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