The 13th Immortal

by Robert Silverberg

"The 13th Immortal" by Robert Silverberg is a science fiction novel written in the late 20th century. The story is set in a dystopian future where the remnants of humanity live under the rule of twelve immortal dukes, created after a global catastrophe. The protagonist, Dale Kesley, struggles with a hazy past and embarks on a journey to Antarctica to uncover his true identity, which may be key to the future of humanity. The narrative intertwines themes of power, identity, and survival in a world steeped in conflict and the remnants of lost technology. The opening of the novel introduces Dale Kesley, a farmer in Iowa Province, who experiences inner turmoil and questions his belonging. He is approached by a mysterious stranger named Dryle van Alen, who reveals that Kesley is the subject of an extensive search and claims that his true home lies in Antarctica, a place shrouded in secrecy. As Kesley grapples with the loss of his past memories and the implications of van Alen’s revelations, he is drawn into a web of intrigue that hints at greater truths waiting to be uncovered. The narrative sets the stage for Kesley's acceptance of a journey that will lead him into the heart of a complex socio-political landscape dominated by immortal rulers and impending change.