Net Worth →
Classic Literature

Rex Ex Machina: Classic Book Guide and Free Edition

Rex Ex Machina: author and translator credits, catalogue synopsis, subjects and links to the Gutenberg reading formats.

Published by Pop Culture Files••2 min read•Automatically generated · review not guaranteed
AI-generated editorial illustration — not a photograph of the subject
AI-generated editorial illustration — not a photograph of the subject

Rex Ex Machina is catalogued by Project Gutenberg with author credits for Max, Frederic.

Catalogue synopsis

Project Gutenberg supplies this automated synopsis of the opening text:

"Rex Ex Machina" by Frederic Max is a science fiction short story written in the mid-20th century. The narrative explores the themes of power, control, and the consequences of technology, particularly through the lens of mind control and hypnosis. Set against a backdrop of the Cold War, the story raises questions about human agency in the face of overwhelming technological advancement. The story unfolds as Francis, who is on his deathbed, writes a final letter to his son sharing his extraordinary past. He recounts his experience as an Army captain who discovered a Russian scientist's invention that could hypnotize the entire world. After assassinating the scientist to prevent the potential misuse of the device, he chooses to keep this powerful tool for himself and utilizes it to foster peace globally. As he concludes his letter, he instructs his son to use the mind-control machine wisely, hinting at the moral complexities and responsibilities that come with such power. The narrative interweaves elements of ethical contemplation and paternal wisdom, ultimately questioning the implications of wielding immense control over humanity.

Book and edition facts

  • Title: Rex Ex Machina
  • Author credits: Max, Frederic
  • Catalogue language: English

Catalogue subjects

  • Science fiction
  • Short stories

Gutenberg collections

  • Category: Novels
  • Category: Science-Fiction & Fantasy
  • Category: Short Stories
  • Science Fiction

Read this edition

View the complete Gutenberg catalogue record. Project Gutenberg identifies this edition as public domain in the United States; that designation does not establish its copyright status in every country.

Source notes

Catalogue metadata is public domain and is supplied through Gutendex, which imports Gutenberg's machine-readable catalogue. The automated synopsis is source-supplied, not an independently verified review. Author dates above describe the credited people; no ebook release date is presented as the book's original publication date.

Sources

More in Books & Authors