Hard to Be a God

"Hard to Be a God" is a science fiction novel by Arkady and Boris Strugatsky, set on a distant planet resembling Earth during a medieval period. It follows a human observer sent to study the society, which is stuck in a state of ignorance and brutality. The protagonist struggles with the moral implications of interfering in this world, questioning concepts of progress, power, and human nature. The story explores themes of responsibility, compassion, and the challenges of being an outsider in a primitive society, highlighting the difficulties of advancing civilization without imposing one's values.