# Human Ambition and Folly in Short Fiction

> Theme guide for Short Fiction by Stanley G. Weinbaum.

Characters driven by curiosity, profit, or scientific glory often face setbacks due to their own flaws (e.g., tardiness, recklessness) or the limitations of their technology, reflecting on the hubris and resilience inherent in human endeavor.

## Where it surfaces

- [Valley of Dreams](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/short_fiction_51_se/chapters/valley-of-dreams): Jarvis and Leroy's curiosity leads them into danger, highlighting the risks of unchecked ambition.
- [The Worlds of If](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/short_fiction_51_se/chapters/the-worlds-of-if): Dixon's guilt and desire to know the 'if' world reflect human folly in seeking to alter or understand the unchangeable past; van Manderpootz's grandiose autobiography plans also illustrate ambition.

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/short_fiction_51_se/themes/human_ambition_and_folly
- Themes index: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/short_fiction_51_se/themes