Vril, The Power of the Coming Race by Edward Bulwer-Lytton

Description

Vril, The Power of the Coming Race is a book by Edward Bulwer-Lytton, first published in 1871. The novel, blending elements of science fiction, utopian ideals, and social critique, tells of the discovery of an advanced subterranean race, the Vril-ya. The story follows an unnamed narrator who stumbles upon the Vril-ya civilization during an underground expedition. The Vril-ya are depicted as a highly evolved and peaceful society with telepathic abilities, advanced technology, and the use of 'Vril,' an all-powerful energy source that they can manipulate for healing, destruction, or sustenance. The novel contrasts the advanced morality and society of the Vril-ya with the flaws of surface-dwelling humans, sparking philosophical questions about the nature of progress and the potential destiny of humankind. Despite its speculative nature, Vril, The Power of the Coming Race had a significant cultural impact. Its concepts influenced later science fiction and even inspired discussions about futuristic technologies. The notion of 'Vril' entered popular culture and was later appropriated in occult and conspiracy theories, cementing the book’s lasting legacy as a thought-provoking, if unconventional, classic.

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