Trips to the Moon

In this intriguing exploration, we delve into the world of small Greek historians who sought to enhance their narratives by embellishing the feats of their compatriots. Lucian first critiqued this tendency in his Instructions for Writing History and later satirized it in his True History, where he whimsically recounts a journey to the moon. This delightful tale likely inspired Rabelais and influenced Cyrano de Bergeracs Voyages to the Moon and to the Sun, ultimately contributing to the creation of Gulliver’s Travels. Additionally, the Icaro-Menippus Dialogue presents another lunar adventure, particularly targeting the philosophical ideas of the time. Join us on this captivating journey through history and satire!