Hard to Be a God
Hard to Be a God
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1973
Book Brief
Beta219
Novel • Fiction
Arkanar • Medieval Fantasy World
1973
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In Hard to Be a God, a historian from a future Earth is sent to study a medieval-like society on another planet. The historian secretly observes as the oppressive regime suppresses intellectual progress, grappling with the ethical dilemma of maintaining non-interference while witnessing brutality and the struggle for knowledge.
Mysterious
Challenging
Dark
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
17,874 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Hard to Be a God by Arkady and Boris Strugatsky is widely praised for its thought-provoking exploration of power and morality. Readers appreciate its rich world-building and philosophical depth. However, some find its dense narrative challenging and the pacing uneven. Overall, it remains a seminal work in science fiction, valued for its intellectual engagement.
Who Should Read Hard to Be a God?
A reader who enjoys Hard to Be a God would likely appreciate thought-provoking, philosophical science fiction. Fans of Ursula K. Le Guin's The Left Hand of Darkness and Frank Herbert's Dune will enjoy its exploration of moral dilemmas and the complexities of interfering in less advanced societies.
17,874 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
219
Novel • Fiction
Arkanar • Medieval Fantasy World
1973
Adult
18+ years
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