58 pages • 1 hour read
MontesquieuPersian Letters
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1721A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
Persian Letters by Montesquieu follows two Persian noblemen, Usbek and Rica, who travel through Europe, particularly France, and document their observations on European society, culture, and politics through letters. Their correspondence, interspersed with philosophical reflections and humorous anecdotes, offers a critique of various aspects of French and European life. The book contains themes of sexual coercion and mentions of self-harm.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Persian Letters by Montesquieu has been praised for its insightful social commentary and clever satirical style, offering a witty critique of French society and culture. However, some readers find its epistolary format dated and overly complex. The characters' perspectives provide a fascinating look at cultural relativism, though the pacing may feel slow to modern audiences.
Who Should Read Persian Letters?
Persian Letters by Montesquieu appeals to readers who enjoy satirical social critique, Enlightenment-era literature, and explorations of cultural relativism. Comparable to Voltaire's Candide and Swift's Gulliver's Travels, it suits those interested in philosophical discourse, political commentary, and comedic insights into human nature and societal norms.