"Lest Darkness Fall" by L. Sprague de Camp follows the story of a 20th-century archaeologist who is transported back to 6th century Rome where he tries to prevent the onset of the Dark Ages by introducing modern innovations and knowledge. The protagonist, Padway, uses his future knowledge to navigate through ancient Rome, facing challenges due to human nature and political complexities. blends elements of time travel and alternate history, creating an engaging narrative that explores the impact of technology and politics on historical events.

Characters:

Characters are generally pragmatic, with the protagonist adapting resourcefully, while secondary characters may be shallow or stereotypical.

Writing/Prose:

The prose is straightforward and somewhat juvenile, focusing on humor and adventure but may lack emotional depth.

Plot/Storyline:

The story involves an archaeologist who, after a lightning strike, travels back in time and attempts to avert the Dark Ages through his knowledge of history and technology.

Setting:

Set in 6th century Rome, the story captures a turbulent historical period as the protagonist interacts with impending societal changes.

Pacing:

The pacing varies, starting engagingly but slowing down during military action in the latter parts.

TANCHEDI TOOK HIS HANDS off the wheel again and waved them. "— so I envy you, Dr. Padway. Here in Rome we have still some work to do. But pah! It is all filling in little gaps. Nothing big, nothing ne...

Notes:

Lest Darkness Fall was written by L. Sprague de Camp and first published in 1939.

The story follows Martin Padway, an archaeologist who time travels back to 535 AD Rome after being struck by lightning.

Padway uses his knowledge of future technology to prevent the onset of the Dark Ages in Europe.

He introduces inventions like the printing press, Arabic numerals, and double-entry bookkeeping.

The book is classified as an alternative history science fiction novel and is considered a classic in the genre.

Padway's character evolves from a struggling outsider to a powerful political figure in ancient Rome.

De Camp's storytelling is often compared to Mark Twain's Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court.

Critics note an instance of racism in the book that feels anachronistic and detracts from the story.

While it was groundbreaking in its time, some modern readers may find its style and pacing dated.

The novel is seen as a significant influence on later works in the time travel and alternate history genres.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

There are instances of racism and anachronistic views, which may be considered problematic for contemporary readers.

From The Publisher:

Against the Fall of Night The Roman Empire had spread order, knowledge, and civilisation throughout the ancient world. When Rome fell, the light of reason flickered out across the Empire.

The Dark Ages had begun; they would last a thousand years. Could a man from the 20th century prevent the fall of Rome? When lightening struck and he was hurled backward into the sixth century, the question became anything but academic to Martin Padway, but even forearmed with a knowledge of 20th century technology and of events to come, what could one man do?

But Padway must try, lest darkness fall.

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Reader Stats (15):

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Want To Read (6)
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Lest Darkness Fall

L. Sprague de Camp