War with the Newts

Historical Context and Significance

Published in 1936, Karel Čapek's novel «War with the Newts» is a satirical work that explores themes of fascism, colonialism, and human greed. The book narrates how humanity discovers intelligent newts and begins to exploit them, ultimately leading to catastrophic consequences. Čapek uses allegory to critique the political and social trends of his time, foreshadowing the horrors of World War II. The novel has had a significant impact on literature and culture, becoming one of the classic works of dystopian and science fiction. It also raises important questions about morality, ethics, and humanity's responsibility for its actions, making it relevant in the modern context.