Best Industrial Revolution & Technological Progress Books in Discworld
Books that explore the impact of technological advancements, innovation, and industrialization on society, examining how these changes reshape cultures, economies, and individuals.
6 books in this thematic series
Top Discworld Books About Industrial Revolution & Technological Progress
- 10
Moving Pictures
When cinema (or "moving pictures") arrives in Ankh-Morpork, it awakens mysterious forces from ancient times. Victor Tugelbend and aspiring star Ginger must confront the power behind their newfound fame.
Critiques mass media, celebrity culture, and the influence of entertainment on society.
Main characters: victor tugelbend, theda ginger witt, gaspode, cmot dibbler, detritus and archchancellor ridcully
- 25
The Truth
Discworld gets its first newspaper, The Ankh-Morpork Times, founded by William de Worde. Journalism clashes humorously and seriously with politics, murder, and conspiracy.
Explores journalism, truth, propaganda, and the social responsibility of the media in shaping public opinion.
Main characters: william de worde, sacharissa cripslock, otto chriek, mr pin, mr tulip and lord vetinari
- 33
Going Postal
Con-man Moist von Lipwig must revive Ankh-Morpork's defunct post office, becoming an unlikely hero in a battle against corporate greed and corruption.
Examines redemption, the ethics of business practices, and the impact of technological progress versus tradition.
Main characters: moist von lipwig, adora belle dearheart, lord vetinari, stanley howler, tolliver groat, mr pump and reacher gilt
- 36
Making Money
Moist von Lipwig tackles another challenge revitalizing Ankh-Morpork's troubled banking system while dealing with family secrets, corruption, and an over-ambitious golem.
Critiques financial systems, greed, trust, and innovation, highlighting the fragile illusion that underpins economies.
Main characters: moist von lipwig, adora belle dearheart, lord vetinari, mr bent, cosmo lavish, hubert turvy and gladys
- 37
Unseen Academicals
Discworld's first football match brings together academics, goblins, and unlikely athletes. Sports become a lens for prejudice, identity, and teamwork.
Explores sportsmanship, tribalism, social mobility, and prejudice, demonstrating how collective activities reflect deeper societal values.
Main characters: mr nutt, glenda sugarbean, juliet stollop, trev likely, archchancellor ridcully, ponder stibbons and lord vetinari
- 40
Raising Steam
Moist von Lipwig champions Discworld's industrial revolution with steam-powered trains, facing sabotage, politics, and progress itself.
Highlights the impact of technological and industrial revolutions, societal progress, and the tension between innovation and tradition.
Main characters: moist von lipwig, dick simnel, harry king, low queen blodwen, lord vetinari, sam vimes, adora belle dearheart and grag ardent
Related Discworld Themes
Satire
Satirical works that humorously critique various aspects of human society, institutions, and behaviors.
Gender and Equality
Explorations of gender roles, discrimination, and the struggle for equal rights and treatment.
Tradition versus Progress
The tension between cultural traditions and the forces of modernization, change, and progress.
Diversity and Tolerance
Examinations of prejudice, integration, and the value of diversity in society.
Heroism and Responsibility
Explorations of what it means to be a hero and the responsibilities that come with power or position.
Media and Communication
Explorations of mass media, information dissemination, and their impact on society.