Micromégas (Modern English Translation)
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'Micromégas' is a pioneering sci-fi novella by Voltaire, portraying a tale of cosmic exploration and philosophical satire. The story follows Micromégas, a giant from a planet orbiting Sirius, and his journey across the universe, culminating in a visit to Earth. Alongside a companion from Saturn, they engage with Earth's inhabitants, exploring themes of knowledge, perception, and the triviality of human affairs from their superior vantage points. This early work of science fiction uses extraterrestrial perspectives to critique and satirise human nature and society, blending imaginative storytelling with philosophical inquiry. Published in 1752, it is one of the earliest examples in the science-fiction genre, and is now presented in a new translation from the original French by Jack Pownall.
Voltaire
Voltaire (1694–1778) was the pseudonym of François-Marie Arouet, one of the most prominent writers and thinkers of the Enlightenment. After studying at the Collège de Clermont (now the Lycée Louis-le-Grand), he began writing philosophical works as well as poems, comedic plays, and other forms of literature. Voltaire was often imprisoned for publicly criticizing the French monarchy. His controversial beliefs included religious freedom, freedom of expression, and separation of church and state.
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