Micromégas (Modern English Translation)

'Micromégas' is a pioneering sci-fi novella by Voltaire, portraying a tale of cosmic exploration and philosophical satire. The story follows Micromégas, a giant from a planet orbiting Sirius, and his journey across the universe, culminating in a visit to Earth. Alongside a companion from Saturn, they engage with Earth's inhabitants, exploring themes of knowledge, perception, and the triviality of human affairs from their superior vantage points. This early work of science fiction uses extraterrestrial perspectives to critique and satirise human nature and society, blending imaginative storytelling with philosophical inquiry. Published in 1752, it is one of the earliest examples in the science-fiction genre, and is now presented in a new translation from the original French by Jack Pownall.