The Ideal by Stanley G. Weinbaum
The novel follows the story of a scientist, Dr. John Harding, who has invented a device that can create a perfect human being. Harding's invention is called the "Ideal," and it is capable of creating a perfect physical and mental specimen. Harding's invention is met with both excitement and fear. Some people are eager to use the Ideal to create a perfect society, while others are concerned about the implications of such a powerful device. The novel follows Harding as he struggles to come to terms with the implications of his invention, and as he deals with the various reactions to it. Along the way, he meets a variety of characters, including a mysterious woman who may be the key to unlocking the secrets of the Ideal. The Ideal is a thought-provoking exploration of the implications of a perfect human being, and the consequences of such a powerful invention. It is a classic work of science fiction, and a must-read for fans of the genre.
By Stanley G. Weinbaum · First published 1935 · Genre: Science Fiction, Romance, Fantasy · 7,981 words
First lines
-"This," said the Franciscan, "is my Automaton, who at the proper time will speak, answer whatsoever question I may ask, and reveal all secret knowledge to me." He smiled as he laid his hand affectionately on the iron skull that topped the pedestal.
The youth gazed open-mouthed, first at the head and then at the Friar. "But it's iron!" he whispered. "The head is iron, good father."
What this Textopian page supports
The Ideal is listed on Textopian as a novel by Stanley G. Weinbaum, dated 1935 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novel
- Author: Stanley G. Weinbaum
- Date: 1935 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Science Fiction, Romance, Fantasy, Adventure
- Length: 7,981 words
- Structure: 1 section, 296 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Ideal by Stanley G. Weinbaum
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Ideal?
- How does this novel by Stanley G. Weinbaum fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Science Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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- Serapion by Francis Stevens
- Out Of The Silence by Erle Cox
- The Circle Of Zero by Stanley G. Weinbaum
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- The Brink Of Infinity by Stanley G. Weinbaum
Genres
- Science Fiction — The Ideal is a science fiction novel by Stanley G. Weinbaum, which follows the story of a scientist who creates a perfect woman.
- Romance — The novel follows the romantic relationship between the scientist and his creation, making it a romance novel as well.
- Fantasy — The Ideal is a fantasy novel due to its focus on the creation of a perfect woman, which is a concept that is not possible in reality.
- Adventure — The novel follows the scientist's journey to create the perfect woman, making it an adventure novel as well.
Tags
Romantic Fiction · Science Fiction · bacon · barrel · called · denise · dixon · energy · exist · eyes · features · ideal