Lecture Notes: The Coming Race by Edward Bulwer

Introduction

• The work is titled "The Coming Race" or "Vril: The Power of the Coming Race" by Edward Bulwer.
• It's written uniquely, making it feel more like a biography than fiction.
• The author writes as if he experienced the events, which stand out compared to typical fictional stories.

Overview of the Story

• The story starts with the protagonist being contacted by a friend who supervises a mine.
• Workers in the mine hear voices from below, suggesting an unexplored world.
• The protagonist and his friend descend into the earth, where the friend is killed by a giant creature.

The Underground World

• The underground is inhabited by a powerful race known as the Vril-ya.
  • They exert a non-physical pressure that forces submission.
  • Have the ability to manipulate people like puppets.
  • Possess wings that are technological rather than biological.
  • Society is matriarchal; females are more powerful than males.

The Power of Vril

• The Vril-ya have immense power, comparable to weapons of mass destruction.
  • Power balance is not based on numbers but on strength and ability.
  • They can manipulate and control individuals without physical contact.
  • Children of this race have powers capable of defeating large populations.

Social Structure

• Society functions differently from the "upper world."
  • Wealth is not a driving factor; people do not desire riches.
  • Individuals live healthy lives well past 100 years, maintaining their youthful energy.
  • The society is not democratic but autocratic, where communities are small and controlled.
  • If unhappy, members can leave to form new communities.

Critique of Upper World Society

• Criticism of upper world society's focus on greed and destruction.
  • The civilization is driven by growth, hunger, and greed, leading to nihilism.
  • Reflection on the disparity and inequality in wealth distribution.

Philosophical Views

• The book questions the nature of supreme beings and religion.
• It criticizes societal norms, particularly the treatment of women.
• The author suggests that the race of Vril could be a force for change when they emerge.

Conclusion

• The protagonist is saved by Zee, a female Vril-ya, who falls in love with him.
• Despite mutual affection, societal rules prevent them from being together.
• The Vril-ya are seen as potential future overlords of the surface world.
• The story ends with a reflection on whether this is fiction or a deeper truth.

Final Thoughts

• The book presents a deep critique of contemporary civilization and its flaws.
• It introduces a vision of a powerful society with values and strengths different from the "upper world."
• Encourages reflection on human society's future direction and the potential for change.