The Humbugs of the World · Chapter
The Moon-Hoax explained
This chapter recounts the famous 'Moon-Hoax' published in the New York Sun in 1835, a scientific hoax that captivated the public.
What happens
This chapter recounts the famous 'Moon-Hoax' published in the New York Sun in 1835, a scientific hoax that captivated the public. It describes the context of the astronomical mania of the time, the content of the hoax itself (including fabricated discoveries by Sir John Herschel), the immense public reaction, the financial success it brought the Sun, and the eventual exposure of the hoax. The author also identifies Richard Adams Locke as the writer and notes the hoax's lasting impact.
Themes in this chapter
Gullibility and Human Nature
The chapter details how the public, including the educated and elite, eagerly believed the fabricated lunar discoveries, illustrating widespread gullibility.
Advertising and Showmanship
The Sun's promotion of the hoax and the subsequent pamphlet sales demonstrate the power of sensationalism and showmanship in driving circulation and profit.
Definition and Nature of Humbug
The Moon-Hoax is presented as a prime example of a deliberate, elaborate deception, fitting the definition of humbug as a clever imposture.
Characters to notice
- Mr. Locke
Richard Adams Locke, the author of the Moon-Hoax, then a young editor at the Sun and the only shorthand reporter in New York.
- Sir John Herschel
The real astronomer whose name was used in the hoax; he was forced to issue a denial after the story spread globally.
- Mr. Barnum
The narrator and author of the book, who provides the account of the hoax and its aftermath.
- Mr. Greeley
Mentioned indirectly via the Tribune office location; not a direct participant but part of the New York press landscape.
Key passages
“The sensation created by this immense imposture, not only throughout the United States, but in every part of the civilized world, and the consummate ability with which it was written, will render it interesting so long as our language shall endure”
The hoax caused a huge stir globally and was so well-written that it would remain fascinating for generations.
Highlights the enduring impact and literary quality of the hoax.
“Mr. Locke declares that his original object in writing the Moon story was to satirize some of the extravagances of Doctor Dick, and to make some astronomical suggestions which he felt diffident about offering seriously.”
Locke said he wrote the story to poke fun at Dr. Dick's exaggerations and to propose astronomical ideas he was hesitant to state directly.
Reveals the author's satirical intent behind the hoax.