The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1759

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Before You Read Beta

Summary

Background

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-11

Chapters 12-21

Chapters 22-31

Chapters 32-41

Chapters 42-49

Character Analysis

Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Important Quotes

Essay Topics

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Discussion Questions

Essay Topics

Discuss the structure of Rasselas, Prince of Abyssinia and how Johnson uses the episodic nature of Rasselas’s journey to explore philosophical themes. How does this narrative structure affect the development of the novel’s themes?

Examine the role of imagination in Rasselas, Prince of Abyssinia. How do the characters use imagination to cope with or escape reality? What does Johnson seem to be saying about the power and limitations of imagination?

Discuss the development of Rasselas or Nekayah throughout the novel. What key experiences lead to pivotal changes in their character or worldview? How does Johnson use their development to explore broader philosophical questions?