Micromegas

by Voltaire

"Micromegas" by Voltaire is a novella published in 1752. This early work of science fiction follows a giant being from a planet orbiting Sirius and his Saturnian companion as they journey through space and eventually arrive on Earth. Using the outsider's perspective, Voltaire crafts a philosophical tale that explores questions of scale, intelligence, and human significance. When the travelers discover tiny humans aboard a ship, they struggle to communicate with these microscopic creatures, leading to surprising revelations about knowledge and existence.