The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia

Rasselas and Imlac devise a plan to escape the Happy Valley by mimicking the behavior of rabbits that retreat to burrows on the mountainside. They plan to dig an escape route through the mountain, starting at a point where the summit overhangs the middle. This idea excites Rasselas. They search for the ideal spot to start digging and find a small, concealed cavern. With tools in hand, they begin their excavation, initially disheartened by the task’s physical demands. However, Imlac encourages persistence, likening their project to building a palace stone by stone. Their perseverance pays off when they discover a fissure that allows easier progress. Imlac advises the prince to remain practical and not be swayed by superstition, emphasizing that their success depends on their efforts.

Nekayah, Rasselas’s sister, discovers his and Imlac’s escape plan as they near completion. She has been observing their regular trips and, driven by curiosity, investigated. Rasselas decides to trust her with their plan, and Nekayah expresses a strong desire to join them, feeling similarly confined. Rasselas readily agrees, regretting not including her earlier. The trio finalizes their plans, with Nekayah acting as a lookout. Their efforts are successful, and they emerge from the tunnel to the sight of the Nile and the world beyond. Rasselas is exhilarated by the prospect of new adventures, while Imlac remains more reserved, tempered by his past experiences.

With jewels hidden for their financial security, Rasselas, Nekayah, and Imlac escape through the tunnel under a full moon. Overwhelmed by the vast landscape, they face initial fears of the unknown. Imlac encourages them to continue. Their first encounter with the outside world involves humble shepherds offering simple food, which initially disappoints Nekayah but soon teaches her to appreciate the novel flavors. As they travel through more populated areas, they marvel at the diversity of human life. Imlac guides them, helping them adapt and avoid drawing attention to their royal origins. They spend several weeks in a village, gradually learning to blend in. Eventually, they reach a seaport, where the bustling environment captivates them. Concerned about recognition, Imlac urges them to board a ship to Suez.

In Cairo, Rasselas, Nekayah, and Imlac are initially overwhelmed by the bustling city. Imlac, posing as a merchant, secures their finances by selling jewels and establishes them in a grand home. Over two years, they learn the language and engage with the community. Rasselas observes apparent happiness among the people and questions his own discontent. Imlac explains that outward appearances can be misleading and that many people hide their struggles. This deepens Rasselas’s understanding of human nature and the complexities of happiness. He learns that people’s choices are often driven by circumstances beyond their control. Despite this, Rasselas remains hopeful, believing in his ability to make deliberate choices about his life through a comprehensive exploration of different lifestyles.

Rasselas explores the lifestyles of young men devoted to pleasure, joining a group characterized by their carefree attitudes. However, he soon finds their merriment shallow and their activities driven by base desires. Their disregard for structure leaves him feeling empty, and he is disheartened by their vulnerability to societal judgment and personal regret. Rasselas tries to share his insights, urging them to consider the long-term consequences of their choices, but they mock his advice. Despite the rejection, he regains his composure, confident in his moral and intellectual superiority.

Rasselas discovers a lecturer who teaches the virtues of reason over passion, arguing that true happiness comes from mastering emotions. Inspired, Rasselas seeks to follow his teachings closely. However, visiting the lecturer’s home, Rasselas finds him in despair over his daughter’s death, revealing a disconnect between his teachings and his ability to cope with personal tragedy. Rasselas reflects on the practical shortcomings of philosophy in addressing human grief and emotional complexity.

Rasselas, Nekayah, and Imlac visit shepherds to understand pastoral life’s simplicity. However, they find the shepherds rude, ignorant, and discontent, as they feel exploited by the wealthy. This experience disillusions Nekayah, who had romanticized rural life. She expresses a strong aversion to living among “envious savages” yet remains conflicted, still drawn to the idea of a peaceful life connected to nature. She fantasizes about a pastoral existence with virtuous companions, far from the harsh realities they observed.

Seeking refuge from the heat, Rasselas, Nekayah, and Imlac find an enchanting woodland leading to a magnificent palace. The hospitable, wealthy master welcomes them but reveals he lives in constant fear due to envy from the Bassa (i.e., emperor) of Egypt. His prosperity attracts danger, forcing him to plan for escape. This encounter impacts the group, particularly Nekayah, who feels sorrow and outrage at the injustice. They reflect on the deceptive nature of appearances and the inherent risks of wealth, which can generate fear and instability rather than security and happiness.

Rasselas, Nekayah, and Imlac visit a renowned hermit expecting to find contentment and peace. The hermit, living in a well-organized cave, maintains hospitality and order. He reveals he was once a high-ranking officer who retreated from the world after disillusionment. However, the hermit confesses that isolation did not bring true happiness, as he missed good company and meaningful engagement. Admitting his struggles, he decides to return to society, believing that true devotion and virtue require active participation in the world. The group offers to escort him back to Cairo, where he looks forward to reentering society.