BOOK BRIEF

King Leopold's Soliloquy

Mark Twain
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King Leopold's Soliloquy

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2014

Book Brief

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Mark Twain

King Leopold's Soliloquy

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2014
Book Details
Pages

95

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Belgium • Early 1900s

Publication Year

2014

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In King Leopold's Soliloquy, Mark Twain uses satire to depict King Leopold II's perspective on the brutal exploitation in the Congo Free State. The narrative presents King Leopold addressing his critics and attempting to justify his oppressive practices. It's a critique of imperialism and the humanitarian crisis in the Congo during his reign.

Dark

Unnerving

Mysterious

Gritty

Informative

Reviews & Readership

4.2

479 ratings

73%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

King Leopold's Soliloquy by Mark Twain is largely praised for its sharp satire and powerful indictment of colonial exploitation in the Congo. Critics commend Twain's incisive wit and moral critique. However, some view the pamphlet's heavy irony as potentially obscuring its serious message. Overall, it is an impactful piece on human rights abuses.

Who should read this

Who Should Read King Leopold's Soliloquy?

Readers who appreciate political satire and historical critique, such as George Orwell's Animal Farm or Joseph Heller's Catch-22, would enjoy King Leopold's Soliloquy. They seek sharp wit and moral commentary on imperialism and human rights in Twain's incisive monologue form.

4.2

479 ratings

73%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

95

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Belgium • Early 1900s

Publication Year

2014

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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