The Sword of the Lictor

About the Category

First published in 1981, Gene Wolfe's The Sword of the Lictor is a work of science fiction that has drawn sustained interest from critics and prize committees alike. Its engagement with the human condition gives the book a depth that extends well beyond its genre. The book's place in the literary record rests on its presence across major prize lists and critical surveys. Its aggregate editorial score of 30/100 reflects recognition from 1 independent editorial sources, from international prizes to specialist critical journals. What distinguishes The Sword of the Lictor is how it handles its central concerns — the human condition — without reducing them to neat conclusions. The book invites close reading and holds up well to it. Within International's literary landscape, Gene Wolfe occupies a significant position. The Sword of the Lictor is both a personal artistic statement and a contribution to a tradition shaped by the country's history and cultural concerns.

About this assessment: Editorial scores are aggregated from 1 independent sources including major literary prizes, critical surveys, and leading publications. Our editorial team reviews and contextualises this data. Rankings reflect critical consensus, not personal opinion or popularity metrics. Learn about our methodology.