The Pygmies by Jorge Luis Borges
This work is a collection of short stories that explore the concept of identity and reality through the lens of a fictional tribe of people known as the Pygmies. The stories are presented in a non-linear fashion, blurring the lines between fiction and reality. They examine the nature of time, space, and human perception, often using elements of fantasy and science fiction to make philosophical points about the human condition.
By Jorge Luis Borges · First published 1957 · Genre: Mythology, Fantasy, Historical Fiction · 151 words
First lines
In the knowledge of the ancients, this nation of dwarfs measuring twenty-seven inches in height dwelled in the mountains beyond the utmost limits of India or of Ethiopia. Pliny states that they built their cabins of mud mixed with feathers and eggshells. Aristotle allots them underground dens. For the harvest of wheat they wielded axes, as though they were out to chop down a forest. Each year they were attacked by flocks of cranes whose home lay on the Russian steppe. Riding rams and goats, the Pygmies retaliated by destroying the eggs and nests of their foes. These expeditions of war kept them busy for the space of three months out of every twelve.
Similar titles
- The Rain Bird by Jorge Luis Borges
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- The Rejected Sorcerer by Jorge Luis Borges
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Genres
- Mythology — The narrative involves mythical creatures and gods, drawing from ancient legends and folklore.
- Fantasy — The depiction of a nation of dwarfs and their battles with cranes suggests a fantastical world beyond reality.
- Historical Fiction — References to ancient civilizations and historical figures like Pliny and Aristotle provide a historical context.
- Adventure — The story includes elements of exploration and conflict, such as the Pygmies' expeditions against the cranes.
Tags
Philosophical Fiction · Short Story Collection · Anthropological Themes · Cultural Commentary · Existentialism · Absurdism · Surrealism · Mythology · Folklore · Symbolism · Metaphysics · Psychological Insight
What this Textopian page supports
The Pygmies is listed on Textopian as a short story by Jorge Luis Borges, dated 1957 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Jorge Luis Borges
- Date: 1957 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Mythology, Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Adventure, Allegory
- Length: 151 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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