Description
By: Samuel Butler (1835-1902)
Erewhon by Samuel Butler is a thought-provoking and satirical novel that challenges societal norms and questions the nature of humanity and civilization. The story follows an unnamed protagonist who stumbles upon the secluded and mysterious land of Erewhon, a place where all technology is banned and illness is considered a crime. As he navigates this strange and backward society, he is forced to confront his own beliefs and values.
Butler’s writing is both sharp and insightful, offering a scathing critique of modern civilization and the dangers of unchecked progress. The novel is filled with clever observations and witty commentary on topics such as religion, education, and morality. Despite being written over a century ago, Erewhon remains relevant and thought-provoking, challenging its readers to reflect on the ways in which our own society may be flawed.
Overall, Erewhon is a captivating and imaginative novel that will leave readers pondering the complexities of human nature and the impact of technology on society. Butler’s unique perspective and keen wit make this a novel worth reading for anyone interested in exploring unconventional ideas and questioning the status quo.
Book Description:
Erewhon, or Over the Range is a novel by Samuel Butler, published anonymously in 1872. The title is also the name of a country, supposedly discovered by the protagonist. In the novel, it is not revealed in which part of the world Erewhon is, but it is clear that it is a fictional country. Butler meant the title to be read as the word Nowhere backwards, even though the letters “h” and “w” are transposed. It is likely that he did this to protect himself from accusations of being unpatriotic, although Erewhon is obviously a satire of Victorian society.
