The Ignoble Savages

** "The Ignoble Savages" by Evelyn E. Smith is a satirical science fiction tale set on the planet Snaddra, where its inhabitants have decided to masquerade as primitive people to trick Earth anthropologists and save their civilization from extinction. The story follows Skkiru, who portrays a beggar as part of the deceptive plan, as he develops feelings for Larhgan, the newly appointed high priestess. Bbulas, the scheming high priest, leads the cultural charade, creating a world of artificial traditions and staged encounters for the visiting Earthmen. Skkiru struggles with his role in the deception, questioning his identity, confronting the absurdities of their faux society, and yearning to prove his value amidst the charade. The themes of identity, survival, and the meaning of civilization are explored through the characters' interactions, the fabricated customs, and the Earthmen's observations, creating a thought-provoking look at what truly defines a society. **