Erewhon

When a young English sheep farmer ventures into an unexplored mountain range, he discovers a hidden country called Erewhon—a place that is both strange and strangely familiar. In this satirical utopia, illness is a crime, crime is an illness, and machines are feared for their potential to become conscious. Through the narrator's bewildered eyes, Samuel Butler turns Victorian England upside down, poking fun at religion, education, health, and the tyranny of public opinion. Written in 1872 and published anonymously, Erewhon remains one of the most imaginative and thought-provoking satires in English literature. Its discussion of machine consciousness feels uncannily modern, while its wit and irony continue to delight readers.

This edition is perfect for first-time readers, students, and book clubs. It includes the complete text of Erewhon, a new introduction that sets the book in its historical context, a character guide to the people of Erewhon, a summary of the plot, an exploration of key themes, a glossary of old and unusual words, and discussion questions to spark conversation. Whether you are studying the novel or simply enjoying it, this companion will help you navigate Butler's ingenious world and appreciate its enduring relevance.