The Libri GmbH The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abyssinia Paperback

Samuel Johnson's philosophical novel The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abyssinia tells of a young prince who escapes the luxury of 'the happy valley' to explore the world in search of true happiness.Tired of his sheltered life, Prince Rasselas flees with his sister Nekayah, her attendant Pekuah, and philosopher Imlac to find purpose in the real world.They travel to Egypt, interacting with various social classes and examining different lifestyles, only to discover that happiness is often eclipsed by disappointment, anxiety, and sorrow.The travelers realize their search for lasting happiness is futile, accepting the limitations of human existence and returning to Abyssinia.The novella acts as a 'satire on optimism,' examining the human mind's infinite capacity for hope while exploring realities of human dissatisfaction.