30 pages • 1 hour read
Ursula K. Le GuinThe Dispossessed
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1974A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
The Dispossessed by Ursula K. Le Guin follows Odinian physicist Shevek, who travels from the isolated moon Anarres to the abundant planet Urras to pursue intellectual freedom and initiate exchange between the two contrasting societies. Through alternating chapters of Shevek’s experiences on each planet, the novel explores themes of socialism, capitalism, and social hierarchies. This book contains references to violence and political oppression.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Ursula K. Le Guin's The Dispossessed explores complex themes of freedom, society, and individuality through the dual worlds of Anarres and Urras. Critics praise its rich world-building and philosophical depth. Some find its pacing slow and the narrative dense, but overall, it's recognized as a thought-provoking, seminal work in science fiction.
Who Should Read The Dispossessed?
Readers who enjoyed 1984 by George Orwell or Brave New World by Aldous Huxley will find Ursula K. Le Guin's The Dispossessed captivating. Ideal for lovers of thought-provoking, sociopolitical sci-fi that explores anarchism, collectivism, and individualism through rich world-building and deep philosophical questions.
RecommendedReading Age
18+yearsLexile Level
820L