Most Popular Books by Samuel Butler

Erewhon, or Over The Range Samuel Butler - Erewhon: or, Over the Range is a novel by Samuel Butler which was first published anonymously in 1872,set in a fictional country discovered and explored by the protagonist. Butler meant the title to be understood as the word "nowhere" backwards even though the letters "h" and "w" are transposed. The book is a satire on Victorian society.The first few chapters of the novel dealing with the discovery of Erewhon are in fact based on Butler''s own experiences in New Zealand, where, as a young man, he worked as a sheep farmer on Mesopotamia Station for about four years (186064), and explored parts of the interior of the South Island and which he wrote about in his A First Year in Canterbury Settlement (1863).The novel is one of the first to explore ideas of artificial intelligence, as influenced by Darwin''s recently published On the Origin of Species (1859) and the machines developed out of the Industrial Revolution (late 18th to early 19th centuries). Specifically, it concerns itself, in the three-chapter "Book of the Machines", with the potentially dangerous ideas of machine consciousness and self-replicating machines.

Samuel Butler''s "The Way of All Flesh" is a seminal work that intricately explores the struggles between individual identity and societal expectation. Written in a semi-autobiographical style, Butler employs an innovative narrative approach that combines realism with sharp social critique, deftly illustrating the complexities of family dynamics and the constraints of Victorian morality. The novel delves deep into the protagonist''s life, revealing the oppressive nature of parental influence and the quest for self-realization, all while employing vivid imagery and a poignant, often satirical tone that engages the reader both intellectually and emotionally. Butler, a controversial figure of the Victorian era, drew from his own life experiences as the son of a clergyman to craft this powerful narrative. His upbringing in the stringent confines of religious orthodoxy and the intellectual rebellion that ensued profoundly influenced his literary voice. "The Way of All Flesh" reflects Butler''s desire to critique not only the prevailing attitudes of his time but also the broader human condition, emphasizing themes of liberation and the search for authenticity that resonate with modern audiences. This novel is highly recommended for readers interested in existential inquiries and the evolution of individualism. Butler''s incisive observations and rich, nuanced storytelling invite contemplation about the timeless conflict between societal norms and personal aspirations, making it a pivotal read for those who appreciate literature that probes the depths of human experience.

The Odyssey is Homer''s epic of Odysseus'' 10-year struggle to return home after the Trojan War. While Odysseus battles mystical creatures and faces the wrath of the gods, his wife Penelope and his son Telemachus stave off suitors vying for Penelope''s hand and Ithaca''s throne long enough for Odysseus to return. A classic Greek tale, Homer captured the essence of the story by hand, and the Odyssey is one of the oldest extant works of literature read by contemporary audiences.

In "Life and Habit," Samuel Butler presents a profound exploration of the relationship between life and the evolutionary processes that shape behavior and habit. Through a blend of vivid prose and philosophical inquiry, Butler delves into the themes of instinct, adaptation, and the influence of environment on development, challenging the established notions of his time. Written during the late 19th century, a period marked by rapid scientific advancement and skepticism towards traditional beliefs, this work reflects the tensions between Darwinian theory and emerging ideas regarding consciousness and personal agency. Butler''Äôs unique literary style combines rigorous reasoning with a personal, reflective voice, inviting readers to consider the complexities of life beyond mere biological determinism. Samuel Butler (1835-1902) was an English writer and philosopher known for his critiques of Victorian society and his deep engagement with evolutionary theory. His unique upbringing, coupled with his experiences as a painter and a writer, instilled in him a keen sense of observation and inquiry. His admiration for Darwin''s work led to his critical observations about the limitations of natural selection, which ultimately inspired the conceptual framework of "Life and Habit," as he sought to articulate a more nuanced understanding of the interplay between instincts and habits. I highly recommend "Life and Habit" to anyone interested in the intersections of philosophy, biology, and literature. Butler''s insights into the formation of habits and their ramifications for personal and societal evolution challenge readers to reconsider their own patterns of behavior in light of broader evolutionary principles. This text not only serves as a foundational work in the philosophy of biology but also enriches our understanding of human nature itself.

Reproduction of the original: Erewhon Revisited by Samuel Butler

Ten years have passed since the fall of Troy, and the Greek hero Odysseus still has not returned to his kingdom in Ithaca. A large and rowdy mob of suitors who have overrun Odysseus''s palace and pillaged his land continue to court his wife, Penelope. She has remained faithful to Odysseus. Prince Telemachus, Odysseus''s son, wants desperately to throw them out but does not have the confidence or experience to fight them. One of the suitors, Antinous, plans to assassinate the young prince, eliminating the only opposition to their dominion over the palace.

- This version of Erewhon includes a biography of the author Samuel Butler at the end of the book -This includes her life before and after the release of the book Erewhon: or, Over the Range is a novel by Samuel Butler which was first 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 where Erewhon is, but it is clear that it is a fictional country. Butler meant the title to be understood as the word "nowhere" backwards even though the letters "h" and "w" are transposed. The book is a satire on Victorian society.The first few chapters of the novel dealing with the discovery of Erewhon are in fact based on Butler''s own experiences in New Zealand where, as a young man, he worked as a sheep farmer on Mesopotamia Station for about four years (1860-64), and explored parts of the interior of the South Island and which he wrote about in his A First Year in Canterbury Settlement (1863).

In Samuel Butler''s ''Alps and Sanctuaries of Piedmont and the Canton Ticino'', readers are taken on a picturesque journey through the stunning landscapes of the Alps and the religious sanctuaries that dot the region. Butler showcases his keen eye for detail and his lyrical prose style as he describes the natural beauty of the mountains and the spiritual significance of the sanctuaries. Written in the mid-19th century, the book provides a window into the Victorian fascination with travel and exploration, as well as the intersection of nature and religion in European culture. Butler''s work exemplifies the travel writing genre, blending vivid descriptions with insightful reflections on the human connection to the natural world. Samuel Butler, a prolific Victorian author and thinker, drew inspiration from his own travels through Europe to write ''Alps and Sanctuaries''. His deep appreciation for nature and his interest in religious practices shine through in the pages of this book, offering readers a unique perspective on the landscapes and cultures of the region. Butler''s background in classics and philosophy influenced his nuanced approach to exploring the relationship between humans and their surroundings. I highly recommend ''Alps and Sanctuaries of Piedmont and the Canton Ticino'' to readers interested in travel literature, Victorian culture, and the intersection of nature and spirituality. Butler''s evocative writing and insightful observations make this book a captivating read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the Alps and the religious traditions of the region.

Erewhon Revisited Twenty Years Later, Both by the Original Discoverer of the Country and by His Son (1901) is a satirical novel by Samuel Butler, forming a belated sequel to his Erewhon (1872). The Cambridge History of English and American Literature judges that it "has less of the free imaginative play of its predecessor...but, in sharp brilliance of wit and criticism, in intellectual unity and coherence, it surpasses Erewhon" (Wikipedia)

Erewhon: or, Over the Range is a novel by Samuel Butler which was first published anonymously in 1872, set in a fictional country discovered and explored by the protagonist. Butler meant the title to be understood as the word "nowhere" backwards even though the letters "h" and "w" are transposed. The book is a satire on Victorian society.The first few chapters of the novel dealing with the discovery of Erewhon are in fact based on Butler''s own experiences in New Zealand, where, as a young man, he worked as a sheep farmer on Mesopotamia Station for about four years (1860-64), and explored parts of the interior of the South Island and which he wrote about in his A First Year in Canterbury Settlement (1863).The novel is one of the first to explore ideas of artificial intelligence, as influenced by Darwin''s recently published On the Origin of Species (1859) and the machines developed out of the Industrial Revolution (late 18th to early 19th centuries). Specifically, it concerns itself, in the three-chapter "Book of the Machines", with the potentially dangerous ideas of machine consciousness and self-replicating machines

"The Way of All Flesh (sometimes called Ernest Pontifex, or the Way of All Flesh) is a semi-autobiographical novel by Samuel Butler that attacks Victorian-era hypocrisy.[1] Written between 1873 and 1884, it traces four generations of the Pontifex family. Butler dared not publish it during his lifetime, but when it was published (in 1903) it was accepted as part of the general reaction against Victorianism.The title is a common misquotation of a Biblical Hebrew expression, to ""go the way of all the earth"", meaning ""to die"" (1 Kings 2:2 etc.).In 1998, the Modern Library ranked The Way of All Flesh twelfth on its list of the 100 best English-language novels of the 20th century."

Erewhon: or, Over the Range is a novel by Samuel Butler which was first published anonymously in 1872, set in a fictional country discovered and explored by the protagonist. Butler meant the title to be understood as the word "nowhere" backwards even though the letters "h" and "w" are transposed. The book is a satire on Victorian society.The first few chapters of the novel dealing with the discovery of Erewhon are in fact based on Butler''s own experiences in New Zealand, where, as a young man, he worked as a sheep farmer on Mesopotamia Station for about four years (1860-64), and explored parts of the interior of the South Island and which he wrote about in his A First Year in Canterbury Settlement (1863).The novel is one of the first to explore ideas of artificial intelligence, as influenced by Darwin''s recently published On the Origin of Species (1859) and the machines developed out of the Industrial Revolution (late 18th to early 19th centuries). Specifically, it concerns itself, in the three-chapter "Book of the Machines", with the potentially dangerous ideas of machine consciousness and self-replicating machines.

Erewhon or Over the Range By Samuel Butler Butler Samuel Butler''s irreverent satire, ''Erewhon'', castigates the hypocrisy of both religion and conventional social mores, and pours scorn on the unthinking acceptance that makes such beliefs possible. In Erewhon (an anagram of ''Nowhere'') ''normal'' behaviour'' consists of hospitalizing fraudsters and chastising the sick; of disregarding genius and praising the insane. Erewhonians are described as "meek and long-suffering, easily led by the nose, and quick to offer up common sense at the shrine of logic" - pointed criticism of both Victorian society and contemporary ''politically-correct'' repression. Butler''s imaginative tale sparkles with wit and prescient insights: his discussion of the dangers posed by increasingly intelligent machines has more relevance today than when it was first written over 130 years ago. We are delighted to publish this classic book as part of our extensive Classic Library collection. Many of the books in our collection have been out of print for decades, and therefore have not been accessible to the general public. The aim of our publishing program is to facilitate rapid access to this vast reservoir of literature, and our view is that this is a significant literary work, which deserves to be brought back into print after many decades. The contents of the vast majority of titles in the Classic Library have been scanned from the original works. To ensure a high quality product, each title has been meticulously hand curated by our staff. Our philosophy has been guided by a desire to provide the reader with a book that is as close as possible to ownership of the original work. We hope that you will enjoy this wonderful classic work, and that for you it becomes an enriching experience. Erewhon or Over the Range, By Samuel Butler Butler,

"The Way of All Flesh," an autobiographical account of a harsh Victorian upbringing and troubled adulthood, was penned by Samuel Butler and hailed by George Bernard Shaw as "one of the summits of human achievement." Butler''s novel satirizes Victorian hypocrisy in its chronicle of the life and loves of Ernest Pontifex. Along the way, it offers a powerful indictment of 19th-century England''s major institutions. Beginning with the life of John Pontifex, a carpenter, the novel traces four generations of the Pontifex family, each of which perpetuates the frustration and unhappiness of its predecessor largely as a result of parental repression. Only Ernest Pontifex, the great-grandson of John, is able to break the cycle. After being ordained a minister, serving a prison term because of a naive misunderstanding, and unwittingly entering into a bigamous marriage with the family''s sluttish servant girl, Ernest providentially inherits enough money from a favorite aunt to change his life and become a writer. Even today, 100 years after the book''s publication, readers will find much to identify with in "The Way of All Flesh." Anyone who felt unjustly treated by his or her parents or teachers will find much to sympathize with here. Anyone who has wrestled with the conflict between Reason and Faith will find much to think about here. It is easy to see how many people have described reading Samuel Butler''s "The Way of All Flesh" as a turning point in their lives.

Erewhon: or, Over the Range is a novel by Samuel Butler which was first published anonymously in 1872,set in a fictional country discovered and explored by the protagonist. Butler meant the title to be understood as the word "nowhere" backwards even though the letters "h" and "w" are transposed. The book is a satire on Victorian society.The first few chapters of the novel dealing with the discovery of Erewhon are in fact based on Butler''s own experiences in New Zealand, where, as a young man, he worked as a sheep farmer on Mesopotamia Station for about four years (1860-64), and explored parts of the interior of the South Island and which he wrote about in his A First Year in Canterbury Settlement (1863).The novel is one of the first to explore ideas of artificial intelligence, as influenced by Darwin''s recently published On the Origin of Species (1859) and the machines developed out of the Industrial Revolution (late 18th to early 19th centuries). Specifically, it concerns itself, in the three-chapter "Book of the Machines", with the potentially dangerous ideas of machine consciousness and self-replicating machines.