Unseen Academicals - Book Review

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Terry Pratchett’s Unseen Academicals, the 37th novel in the Discworld series, was published in 2009. Known for his satirical approach to societal norms and human behaviour, Pratchett uses this novel to delve into themes of identity, class, tribalism, and the nature of sports culture—specifically football. The narrative introduces a new set of characters while revisiting familiar ones from the Unseen University, making it both a fresh and comforting addition to the series.

The story revolves around the wizards of Unseen University, who must fulfil an ancient tradition to play a game of football to continue receiving funds from a historical endowment. The traditionally chaotic and violent sport of football in Ankh-Morpork is in need of reform, and Lord Vetinari sees this as an opportunity to civilize the game for the good of the city.

Parallel to this is the story of four key characters:

Mr. Nutt, a mysterious and highly intelligent goblin working in the university’s candle vats, who struggles with his identity and self-worth.

Glenda Sugarbean, the pragmatic head of the Night Kitchen, who represents working-class wisdom.

Trevor Likely, the son of a famous football player, who has sworn off playing but remains deeply connected to the sport.

Juliet Stollop, a beautiful but naive young woman who becomes a fashion icon and a catalyst for cultural commentary.

These characters’ lives intertwine with the wizards' football endeavours, leading to a climactic match that showcases both personal and societal transformations.

A central theme in Unseen Academicals is the exploration of identity, particularly through the character of Mr. Nutt. Mr. Nutt is a goblin with a traumatic past who seeks to prove his worth to others and himself. His mantra, “Make yourself useful,” reflects his internalized sense of inferiority and his belief that his value is tied to his utility. Over the course of the novel, Mr. Nutt learns to embrace his identity and recognize his intrinsic worth, a journey that mirrors broader questions about societal acceptance and the value of individuals.

Pratchett examines class dynamics through the interactions between characters from different social strata. Glenda represents the working class, grounded in practicality and resilience. Her scepticism of higher-class frivolities contrasts with her eventual acceptance of Juliet’s success in fashion, showcasing the potential for upward mobility. Juliet’s transformation from a kitchen maid to a fashion icon challenges stereotypes about beauty and intelligence, highlighting the complexities of societal expectations.

Football serves as both a literal and metaphorical arena for examining tribalism and community. Pratchett uses the reform of football in Ankh-Morpork to satirize the commercialization and regulation of sports. The transition from a violent, chaotic game to an organized and rules-based sport mirrors real-world shifts in the history of football. The rivalry between football fans in the city reflects the human tendency toward tribalism, both in sports and in broader societal contexts. Pratchett critiques the irrationality of these divisions while celebrating the sense of belonging they can foster.

As with many of Pratchett’s works, Unseen Academicals highlights the importance of narratives and symbols in shaping human behaviour. Mr. Nutt’s fascination with stories, particularly the metaphor of the candle in the dark, symbolizes hope, knowledge, and the power of self-awareness. Football becomes a unifying force in the city, transcending class and cultural divisions while also exposing their absurdities.

Mr. Nutt: Mr. Nutt’s story is the emotional heart of Unseen Academicals. As a goblin, he represents the marginalized and misunderstood. Mr. Nutt’s origins and his quest for self-worth reflect broader themes of prejudice and redemption. His journey is a metaphor for overcoming societal labels and personal insecurities. Nutt’s philosophical musings add a layer of intellectual complexity to the novel, inviting readers to ponder questions about purpose, morality, and acceptance.

Glenda Sugarbean: Glenda serves as a foil to Mr. Nutt’s introspection, offering a pragmatic and grounded perspective. Glenda’s protective instincts, particularly toward Juliet, showcase her deep care for those she loves. While initially resistant to change, Glenda’s eventual embrace of new ideas and opportunities reflects her capacity for growth.



Trevor Likely: Trevor’s reluctance to play football, despite his deep love for the game, adds nuance to the narrative. Trevor’s struggle to balance his family legacy with his own desires highlights the tension between societal expectations and personal agency.

Juliet Stollop: Juliet’s rise to fame as a fashion model in dwarf-designed clothing adds a comedic yet poignant subplot. Juliet’s storyline satirizes the fashion industry and its often arbitrary standards of beauty. Her success also serves as a bridge between Ankh-Morpork’s human and dwarf communities, fostering understanding and collaboration.

The Wizards of Unseen University: The wizards, led by Archchancellor Ridcully, provide much of the novel’s humour and commentary on bureaucracy and academia. Their involvement in football is both comedic and symbolic, representing the clash between tradition and innovation.

Pratchett’s trademark satire is present throughout Unseen Academicals, targeting various aspects of modern life. The commercialization and idolization of football mirror real-world phenomena, critiquing both the passion and the absurdity of sports fandom. Juliet’s transformation into a model pokes fun at the fashion industry’s pretensions and the societal obsession with appearances. The interactions between characters from different social backgrounds highlight the arbitrariness of class distinctions.

Ankh-Morpork, as always, is a vibrant and chaotic backdrop for the story. Pratchett’s detailed world-building adds depth to the narrative: The Night Kitchen serves as a microcosm of working-class life, with its routines and camaraderie providing a stark contrast to the lofty halls of the university. The city’s bustling streets and football fan rivalries create a dynamic and immersive setting.

The novel culminates in a football match that encapsulates the book’s themes of unity, self-discovery, and the power of community. Mr. Nutt finds acceptance among his peers, and the game itself becomes a celebration of Ankh-Morpork’s diversity.

While Unseen Academicals is less action-packed than some of Pratchett’s earlier works, its introspective tone and focus on character development make it a poignant addition to the Discworld series.

Unseen Academicals received mixed to positive reviews upon release. While some critics felt that the pacing and focus on new characters made it less engaging than earlier entries, others praised its thoughtful exploration of identity and societal issues.

The novel’s themes remain relevant, particularly its commentary on inclusivity, self-worth, and the unifying power of shared passions.

Unseen Academicals is a thoughtful and humorous exploration of identity, class, and community, wrapped in the lively world of Ankh-Morpork. While it may not have the high-stakes drama of some Discworld novels, its focus on character development and societal themes makes it a unique and enriching addition to the series. Pratchett’s ability to balance humour with profound insights ensures that Unseen Academicals resonates with readers long after the final whistle blows.

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