The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia

Rasselas, Prince of Abyssinia, a philosophical novel by Samuel Johnson, was first published in 1759. Johnson, an English writer, lexicographer, and moralist, leveraged his intellectual background to explore themes of human nature, happiness, and the pursuit of fulfillment in this work. Published in the Enlightenment era, the novel belongs to the genre of philosophical fiction and delves into the existential musings of Prince Rasselas of Abyssinia (an area roughly corresponding to modern-day Eritrea and Ethiopia, though Johnson is not concerned with the region as a real-world locale). Rasselas and his companions break free from the “happy valley,” a secluded utopian environment, to explore the broader world in their quest to determine if true happiness is achievable. Through their adventures, they engage in discussions about the advantages and disadvantages of an array of lifestyles and philosophies. The novel has been adapted into various media and remains a significant piece of 18th-century British literature. The text reflects Johnson’s understanding of human psychology and explores themes of The Critique of Utopian Thinking, The Philosophical Exploration of Happiness and Its Attainability, and The Role of Personal Freedom in Achieving Fulfillment.

This guide refers to the 2012, Melville House Kindle Edition.

Plot Summary

Rasselas, the prince of Abyssinia, resides in a seemingly perfect utopian valley that fulfills all physical desires yet leaves him feeling deeply dissatisfied and purposeless. Despite the luxury and ease surrounding him, Rasselas experiences restlessness and yearns for a greater understanding of happiness and fulfillment beyond sensory pleasures. The controlled seclusion from the outside world exacerbates Rasselas’s discontent. His observations lead him to question the nature of human satisfaction, and he envies the simplicity of animals who seem content with their immediate needs.

Driven by his dissatisfaction, Rasselas discusses his feelings with his old instructor, who unsuccessfully tries to dissuade him from seeking the outside world. This conversation only strengthens Rasselas’s resolve to escape and explore the broader realities of human existence. With the help of his mentor (Imlac), his sister (Nekayah), and her maid (Pekuah), Rasselas devises a plan to escape the valley. They succeed in their escape and embark on a journey to understand the true nature of happiness by exploring various lifestyles and philosophies in Cairo.

Throughout their journey, the group encounters a range of individuals from different walks of life, each providing insights into the complexities of human happiness. Rasselas mingles with young men devoted to pleasure, a philosopher who espouses reason over passion, and an old man who reflects on the transient nature of joy. Rasselas and Nekayah eventually decide to split up; Rasselas investigates the rewards and challenges associated with great power, while Nekayah lives among people of more middling social status. However, neither sibling discovers the secret to contentment. Under Imlac’s encouragement, the group also visits historical sites such as the Great Pyramids.

The journey reaches a critical moment when a group of Arabs kidnaps Pekuah. After months of uncertainty and determined efforts, the group eventually exchanges a ransom for Pekuah. Her return brings immense relief and joy.

When Rasselas expresses an interest in academic pursuits, Imlac tells him of his meeting with an astronomer who initially appeared to be a wise and knowledgeable figure but eventually revealed his delusion of controlling the weather. The group ultimately meets the astronomer as well, and he begins to distinguish reality from imagination more consistently.

As the group reflects on their journey and the insights gained, they realize that no single lifestyle or philosophy guarantees happiness. They acknowledge the inherent complexities and contradictions in the human pursuit of fulfillment. With their newfound understanding, Rasselas, Nekayah, Imlac, and Pekuah decide to return to Abyssinia, accepting the limitations of their quest while remaining hopeful and wiser from their experiences.