Edwin A. Abbott

19th-century mathematician and theologian who used geometric allegory to critique Victorian social hierarchy.

1884: Flatland published

Characters

The Square

Our protagonist who discovers the third dimension

The Sphere

3D being who visits Flatland

Isosceles

Soldier class

Equilateral

Middle class

Central Conflicts

Person vs Society

The Square's ideas challenge Flatland's rigid hierarchy

Person vs Cosmos

Struggle to comprehend higher dimensions

5 Essential Questions

  1. Can a 2D being truly comprehend 3D space?
  2. Is rebellion against an oppressive system justified?
  3. How does shape determine social status in Flatland?
  4. What parallels exist between Flatland and our society?
  5. Why is the Sphere unable to imagine 4D space?

Wheel of Oppression

Women = Lines
Color Taboo
Irregulars Destroyed
Shape = Status
Vision = Control
Change = Heresy

Enduring Understanding

Dimensions limit perception; true understanding requires transcending one's dimensional perspective. Like the Square struggling to imagine Spaceland, we must recognize the limitations of our own worldviews.

Personal Connection

Like the Square, I've experienced the challenge of explaining new perspectives to those entrenched in their worldview...