The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abyssinia: A Tale (Classic Reprint) - Hardcover

Samuel Johnson

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0265677432 ISBN 13: 9780265677438

Publisher: Forgotten Books, 2018

Synopsis

What is true happiness? A prince of Abyssinia and his sister seek it through travel, discussion, and every lesson life has to offer.

In this enduring tale, a curious royal heir and his companion sister set out from their homeland to explore the many paths to fulfillment. Their dialogue with a philosopher, their observations of court life and humble homes, and their encounters with artists, scholars, and common folk illuminate how desire, power, and pleasure shape our choices—and how difficult it is to find lasting contentment.

The book blends vivid scenes—from grand palaces to quiet conversations in private gardens and even somber catacombs—with reflections on nature, virtue, and the limits of human happiness. It invites readers to weigh the allure of wealth and status against simpler forms of well-being.

• Discover a compact blend of narrative and philosophy that questions what it means to live well.
• Watch a prince and his sister test ideas about power, pleasure, and private happiness.
• Experience memorable scenes that juxtapose court life with daily humble moments.
• Explore timeless debates about nature, virtue, and the human spirit.

Ideal for readers of classic literary philosophy and readers curious about enduring questions of happiness and meaning.

Rasselas, Prince of Abyssinia

Edition details

• Publisher: Forgotten Books
• Publication date: 2018
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0265677432
• ISBN 13: 9780265677438
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 60