Aldous Huxley – A Life of Imagination and Ideas
Aldous Huxley was an English writer, best known for his novel Brave New World, which explores a future
society with strict rules and technology controlling people’s lives. Born in 1894 in England, Huxley was
part of a family of scientists, writers, and teachers. His grandfather was a well-known biologist, and his
mother was a schoolteacher. From a young age, he showed an interest in science and literature.
When Huxley was 16, he lost much of his eyesight due to an illness. This was a tough time for him, as he
wanted to become a scientist but could not because of his poor vision. Instead, he turned to writing, and
this change led him to become one of the most famous authors of the 20th century. He wrote novels,
essays, and poems that explored science, society, and human nature. Huxley was interested in how
technology might shape the future and how it could affect people's freedoms.
In Brave New World, Huxley imagines a world where people have little control over their lives. In this
society, everyone is given a role at birth, and people take drugs to stay happy. While technology makes
life easier, it also removes personal freedom. Through this story, Huxley warned readers about losing
individuality and freedom in a world dominated by technology.
Besides Brave New World, Huxley wrote many other books and essays that looked at society, religion,
and psychology. Later in life, he became interested in spiritual experiences and Eastern philosophies,
exploring these ideas in his book The Doors of Perception. He believed that these experiences could help
people understand more about themselves and the world.
Aldous Huxley died in 1963, but his books continue to be read and studied worldwide. He is
remembered for his unique ideas and his ability to imagine a future that makes people think about their
own lives and societies.
Questions:
1. What was Aldous Huxley’s most famous book, and what is it about?
2. Why did Huxley choose to become a writer instead of a scientist?
3. How does technology affect people’s lives in Brave New World?
4. What were some of Aldous Huxley’s interests later in life?
5. Why is Huxley still remembered and respected today?
1. What nationality was Aldous Huxley?
a) American
b) French
c) English
d) Canadian
2. Which novel is Aldous Huxley best known for?
a) 1984
b) Brave New World
c) Fahrenheit 451
d) The Catcher in the Rye
3. What was Huxley's original career goal before he became a writer?
a) Engineer
b) Teacher
c) Scientist
d) Doctor
4. Why did Huxley choose to focus on writing instead of science?
a) He lost interest in science.
b) His poor eyesight prevented him from becoming a scientist.
c) He preferred literature.
d) He was advised by his family to pursue writing.
5. In Brave New World, what is one thing people take to stay happy?
a) Vitamins
b) Drugs
c) Magic potions
d) Special drinks
6. What did Huxley want readers to think about in Brave New World?
a) Losing individuality and freedom
b) Advancements in technology
c) Wealth and power
d) Relationships between friends
7. Which book did Huxley write about his experiences with spiritual ideas and Eastern
philosophies?
a) Island
b) The Doors of Perception
c) The Art of Happiness
d) The World Beyond
8. What was the profession of Huxley's grandfather?
a) Scientist
b) Poet
c) Musician
d) Politician
9. In what year did Aldous Huxley die?
a) 1945
b) 1963
c) 1975
d) 1984
10. Why is Huxley still respected and remembered today?
a) For his funny stories
b) For his unique ideas and future predictions
c) For his political speeches
d) For his family background
