Horace Walpole
An account of the giants lately discovered : $b In a letter to a friend in the country
"An Account of the Giants Lately Discovered: In a Letter to a Friend in the Country" by S.T. is a satirical text written in the late 18th century, likely during the Enlightenment period. This work takes the form of a letter that humorously discusses the purported discovery of a race of giants in Patagonia by Captain Byron and his crew. The author utilizes the theme of curiosity and exploration, reflecting the era’s fascination with the unknown while critiquing the political and social attitudes of the time. The book presents a fictional narrative in which Captain Byron encounters a group of large, humanoid beings, described as giants. These giants are characterized as polite, albeit timid, as they retreat from the crew upon their approach. Through this fanciful account, the author explores various themes such as colonization, racial theories, and the notion of civilization. The text incorporates commentary on the absurdities of political discourse, the treatment of indigenous populations, and human curiosity regarding other cultures. Ultimately, it serves as both a whimsical exploration of newfound worlds and a critique of the imperialist mindset prevalent in the author’s society.