The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abyssinia · Question
How does The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abyssinia develop the theme of The Choice of Life?
Answer
The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abyssinia by Samuel Johnson develops The Choice of Life across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
The philosophical dilemma of selecting a mode of existence, as Rasselas systematically examines different conditions (courtiers, shepherds, monks, scholars) only to conclude that no single way of life guarantees happiness and that choice itself is constrained by circumstance.
The valley's inhabitants are deprived of choice, living in a predetermined state of blissful captivity, which sets the stage for Rasselas's eventual quest for a meaningful life.
Rasselas's desire for something to pursue sets the stage for his eventual choice to leave the Happy Valley.
Rasselas grapples with the choice between passive dreaming and active pursuit of his goals, ultimately deciding to escape.
Evidence in the book
- Description of a Palace in a Valley
The valley's inhabitants are deprived of choice, living in a predetermined state of blissful captivity, which sets the stage for Rasselas's eventual quest for a meaningful life.
- III: The Wants of Him That Wants Nothing
Rasselas's desire for something to pursue sets the stage for his eventual choice to leave the Happy Valley.
- IV: The Prince Continues to Grieve and Muse
Rasselas grapples with the choice between passive dreaming and active pursuit of his goals, ultimately deciding to escape.
- The Prince Meditates His Escape
Rasselas's active pursuit of escape and his resolve to keep his design in view illustrate the theme of choosing one's own path, even when obstacles seem insurmountable.
- The History of Imlac
Imlac chooses the life of a scholar and traveler over the mercantile path his father intended.
- XIII: Rasselas Discovers the Means of Escape
Rasselas actively chooses to escape the Happy Valley, seeking a life beyond its confines.
- XV: The Prince and Princess Leave the Valley, and See Many Wonders
The Prince and Princess actively choose to leave the valley and embark on a journey of discovery, facing the unknown and learning to adapt.
- They Enter Cairo, and Find Every Man Happy
Rasselas seeks to observe all conditions of humanity in Cairo to make an informed choice of life, but finds that appearances are deceptive.
