The Man Who Would be King

by Rudyard Kipling

Overview

Step into the adventurous and morally complex world of "The Man Who Would Be King" by Rudyard Kipling, a masterful novella that explores themes of ambition, imperialism, and the thin line between reality and delusion. First published in 1888, this gripping tale showcases Kipling's unparalleled storytelling ability and his deep understanding of the human spirit.

"The Man Who Would Be King" follows the extraordinary journey of two British adventurers, Daniel Dravot and Peachey Carnehan, who set out to carve their own kingdom in the remote mountains of Afghanistan. Driven by ambition and a thirst for power, they leave behind the constraints of colonial India with a bold plan: to become kings of Kafiristan, a land untouched by Western influence.

Their journey is fraught with danger and deception, but through cunning and sheer force of will, Dravot and Carnehan manage to convince the native tribes of their divine right to rule. The story takes a fascinating turn as the duo's audacious dream begins to unravel, revealing the inherent risks and moral ambiguities of their imperialistic venture.

Kipling's narrative is rich with vivid descriptions and keen insights into the complexities of colonialism. His portrayal of Dravot and Carnehan is both sympathetic and critical, capturing their larger-than-life personalities and the fatal flaws that ultimately lead to their downfall. The novella delves into themes of power, identity, and the corrupting influence of absolute authority, offering a timeless commentary on human nature and the consequences of unchecked ambition.

Through its thrilling plot and unforgettable characters, "The Man Who Would Be King" challenges readers to consider the ethical implications of imperialism and the often-blurred lines between heroism and hubris. Kipling's sharp prose and dramatic storytelling create a tale that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, ensuring its place as a classic in English literature.

Ideal for fans of adventure tales and those interested in the moral complexities of empire-building, "The Man Who Would Be King" is a captivating read that resonates with contemporary issues of power and ethics. Embark on this remarkable journey with Dravot and Carnehan and discover why Rudyard Kipling remains a literary giant whose work continues to inspire and provoke reflection.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781835910764
Publisher:	Magic Publisher
Publication date:	05/29/2024
Pages:	34
Sales rank:	712,015
Product dimensions:	8.50(w) x 11.00(h) x 0.07(d)

About the Author

Joseph Rudyard Kipling (December 30, 1865 - January 18, 1936) was an English author and poet, born in India, and best known today for his children's books, including The Jungle Book (1894), The Second Jungle Book (1895), Just So Stories (1902), and Puck of Pook's Hill (1906); his novel, Kim (1901); his poems, including Mandalay (1890), Gunga Din (1890), and "If-" (1910); and his many short stories, including "The Man Who Would Be King" (1888) and the collections Life's Handicap (1891), The Day's Work (1898), and Plain Tales from the Hills (1888). He is regarded as a major "innovator in the art of the short story"; his children's books are enduring classics of children's literature; and his best work speaks to a versatile and luminous narrative gift.

Kipling was one of the most popular writers in English, in both prose and verse, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The author Henry James famously said of him: "Kipling strikes me personally as the most complete man of genius (as distinct from fine intelligence) that I have ever known." In 1907, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature, making him the first English language writer to receive the prize, and he remains today its youngest-ever recipient. Among other honours, he was sounded out for the British Poet Laureateship and on several occasions for a knighthood, all of which he rejected.

However, later in life Kipling also came to be seen (in George Orwell's words) as a "prophet of British imperialism." Many saw prejudice and militarism in his works, and the resulting controversy about him continued for much of the 20th century. According to critic Douglas Kerr: "He is still an author who can inspire passionate disagreement and his place in literary and cultural history is far from settled. But as the age of the European empires recedes, he is recognized as an incomparable, if controversial, interpreter of how empire was experienced. That, and an increasing recognition of his extraordinary narrative gifts, make him a force to be reckoned with."