The Barbarians: Classic Book Guide and Free Edition
The Barbarians: author and translator credits, catalogue synopsis, subjects and links to the Gutenberg reading formats.
The Barbarians is catalogued by Project Gutenberg with author credits for Godwin, Tom (1915–1980).
Catalogue synopsis
Project Gutenberg supplies this automated synopsis of the opening text:
"The Barbarians" by Tom Godwin is a science fiction short story originally published in the mid-20th century. The narrative revolves around the conflict between the highly advanced Tharnarian civilization and the Terrans, who are viewed as barbaric invaders. The story explores themes of cultural superiority, fear of the unknown, and the consequences of stagnation in a once-great civilization. In the story, two Terrans, Bob Randall and Virginia, find themselves on Tharnar after their exploratory mission leads them to a confrontation with the Tharnarians. Captured and sentenced to execution, they represent a youthful race brimming with vitality in stark contrast to the complacent Tharnarians, who have not known war for millennia. As Tal-Karanth, the Supreme Executive of Tharnar, grapples with the decision to execute them, he begins to recognize that the true threat is not the Terrans themselves, but rather the stagnation and decay inherent in his own civilization. Ultimately, Tal-Karanth's decision to spare the Terrans marks a pivotal moment for Tharnar, suggesting that new life and vigor may come from the very "barbarians" they feared. The narrative concludes with the Terrans embarking on their quest for knowledge, signifying hope and the possibility of revitalization for both races.
Book and edition facts
- Title: The Barbarians
- Author credits: Godwin, Tom (1915–1980)
- Catalogue language: English
Catalogue subjects
- Human-alien encounters -- Fiction
- Science fiction
- Short stories
Gutenberg collections
- Category: Science-Fiction & Fantasy
- Category: Short Stories
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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.
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