The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abissinia

Examine the role of imagination in Rasselas, Prince of Abyssinia. How do the characters use imagination to cope with or escape reality? What does Johnson seem to be saying about the power and limitations of imagination?

Discuss the development of Rasselas or Nekayah throughout the novel. What key experiences lead to pivotal changes in their character or worldview? How does Johnson use their development to explore broader philosophical questions?

Identify and analyze the use of irony in Rasselas, Prince of Abyssinia. How does Johnson use irony to critique societal norms or philosophical ideas? Provide specific examples from the text.

Explore how Rasselas, Prince of Abyssinia reflects the philosophical and cultural milieu of the 18th century. What Enlightenment ideals can be found in the text, and how does the text critique or support those ideals?

Analyze a specific dialogue or debate between characters in Rasselas, Prince of Abyssinia that encapsulates a key philosophical issue (e.g., the debate on marriage). What arguments are presented, and how do these discussions advance the novel’s thematic concerns?

Compare the philosophical perspectives presented in Rasselas, Prince of Abyssinia with those of another contemporary philosopher like Voltaire or Rousseau. How does Johnson’s portrayal of the quest for happiness and the nature of human life contrast with these other philosophers’ depictions?

How does Rasselas, Prince of Abyssinia critique the concept of utopia? Through the characters’ experiences outside the Happy Valley, what does Johnson suggest about the possibility of creating a perfect society?

Examine the theme of isolation versus community in Rasselas, Prince of Abyssinia. How do Rasselas and other characters experience isolation, and what is Johnson suggesting about the human need for community?