In ‘The Coming Race, ‘ Edward Bulwer-Lytton ventures into the realm of speculative fiction, weaving a narrative that explores themes of evolution, technology, and class struggle. Set in a fantastical underground world inhabited by the superior Vril-ya, the novel presents a society that possesses advanced powers and an esoteric energy source, ‘Vril.’ Lytton’s literary style is marked by rich, descriptive prose that immerses the reader in a vivid exploration of moral and philosophical questions amidst a backdrop of utopian and dystopian elements, situating the text within the broader Victorian era discourse regarding progress and human potential. Edward Bulwer-Lytton (1803-1873) was a prominent British novelist, playwright, and politician whose diverse body of work reflects his obsession with the themes of power, humanity, and the supernatural. His foray into speculative fiction with ‘The Coming Race’ may be seen as a response to the rapid scientific advancements of his time, including the Industrial Revolution and contemporary debates on evolution. The novel not only anticipates future societal changes but also critiques existing hierarchies and values, revealing Lytton’s progressive thought and engagement with the socio-political issues of his era. This captivating novel is a must-read for fans of speculative fiction and those interested in the philosophical inquiries of the human condition. As much a commentary on the 19th-century’s anxieties about progress as it is a thrilling adventure, ‘The Coming Race’ invites readers to question the impact of power and knowledge on society. Bulwer-Lytton’s prescient vision continues to resonate, offering a rich tapestry of ideas for contemporary readers to ponder.
Circa l’autore
Edward George Earle Lytton Bulwer-Lytton, first Baron Lytton (1803–1873), was a prominent English novelist, poet, playwright, and politician, best known for his aphorism, ‘The pen is mightier than the sword.’ A prolific writer, Bulwer-Lytton penned a significant number of literary works that have earned him a place in the annals of English literature. His novel ‘The Coming Race’ (1871), a pioneering work in the science fiction genre, hints at his versatility and imagination, exploring themes of a subterranean world dominated by a superior human race known as the Vril-ya. His contribution, however, extends beyond this singular work. Notably, his novel ‘Pellucidar’, his historical romances such as ‘The Last Days of Pompeii’ (1834), and his occult interests in works like ‘A Strange Story’ (1862) demonstrate his adept handling of a broad range of themes from the contemporary social scene to the historical and fantastic. Bulwer-Lytton’s literary style is characterized by a complex, sometimes florid, narrative and a keen interest in exploring the societal mores of his time. Throughout his literary career, he achieved significant acclaim, though in later years his reputation waned. In present-day discussions, his work is subject to a reevaluation that acknowledges both his achievements in genre diversification and his impact on Victorian literature (Christensen, 1977; Mitchell, 1998).
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