Orbis

By Scott Mackay, 2002

My summary...

In the wake of an alien invasion at the era of Jesus Christ, some Romans escape to the stars and wait for revenge. On earth, christianism is reused as a way to build a theocracy, where the invaders are the angels and where both latin and radio are prohibited. Two thousands years later, churchman Eric Nordstrum takes part in a expedition to contact a roman advanced civilization.

My opinion...

Even if the main plot is really basic, the frame in which it is set is very original. That's why I particularly like the book : « Factum Optime » to the author.

1. Science fiction concepts are put into Latin, such as laser-weapons (« baculum ») and alien species (the « Hortulani » or the« Patroni »). I find it really funny :)

2. It is not only about calling aliens and modern technology in latin but also about making the roman mindset confront alien and space issues. Especially as roman habits got frozen for 2000 years (contrary to « Roma Eterna » of Robert Silverberg).

3. Characters like Eric Nordstrum or Hesperus are particularly touching.

4. The title « Orbis » seems to refer both to the circle that symbolizes the aliens and to the planet Earth.

5. In the book Earthlings, Aliens and Romans are not each boiled down to a unique mindset but are rather complex.

Medicis