Plot Summary

Gladiator

Philip Wylie
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Gladiator

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1930

Book Brief

Philip Wylie

Gladiator

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1930
Book Details
Pages

192

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

United States • 1910s

Publication Year

1930

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Gladiator by Philip Wylie follows the life of Hugo Danner, who possesses superhuman strength, speed, and intelligence due to his father's prenatal chemical experiments. The narrative explores Hugo's lifelong struggle to find acceptance and fulfillment while concealing his extraordinary abilities. Through various roles, including athlete, soldier, and professional, Hugo faces challenges and societal misunderstandings, never fully finding his place. Topics include animal experimentation, bullying, and graphic violence.

Mysterious

Gritty

Challenging

Unnerving

Fantastical

Reviews & Readership

4.0

773 ratings

66%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Reviews of Philip Wylie's Gladiator highlight its pioneering exploration of themes like superhuman capabilities and societal alienation. Critics praise its influence on modern superhero narratives and philosophical depth. However, some find the pacing uneven and the characters underdeveloped. Overall, it's regarded as a thought-provoking, albeit flawed, classic.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Gladiator?

Fans of science fiction classics like Frankenstein and Brave New World will enjoy Philip Wylie’s Gladiator. This novel appeals to readers fascinated by early 20th-century speculative fiction, exploring themes of human enhancement and societal norms. Its blend of adventure and philosophical inquiry is ideal for enthusiasts of early superhero archetypes.

4.0

773 ratings

66%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Fun Facts

Gladiator, published in 1930, is often cited as one of the inspirations for the creation of Superman, as both feature protagonists with superhuman strength and abilities.

The novel was among the early works that explored the concept of a "superman" figure, predating many popular superhero comics.

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Philip Wylie's novel contributed to discussions around science and ethics by examining the consequences of genetic experimentation and the creation of a person with extraordinary powers.

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Book Details
Pages

192

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

United States • 1910s

Publication Year

1930

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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