The book "Babel" by R.F. Kuang is a historical fantasy novel set primarily in the early 19th century. It follows the journey of Robin, a young boy from Canton, who is the sole survivor of a cholera outbreak in his village. He is "rescued" and taken to England, where he eventually enrolls in the Royal Institution of Translation, also known as Babel, at Oxford College.

The novel explores several key themes, including the intersection of academia and empire, and the exploitation of scholars as resources rather than equals. Despite being welcomed as scholars, the characters realize they are never truly accepted and remain outsiders (00:33:03 to 00:33:27). The book also touches on how academia is deeply intertwined with the activities of empire, with much research and technology being driven by military and government applications (00:28:33 to 00:28:56).

Robin’s personal journey spans several years, beginning in 1828 and covering his experiences at Babel and the sociopolitical dynamics of the time, including the opium wars, which play a significant role in his radicalization (01:07:05 to 01:07:26). The story delves into themes of identity, colonialism, and resistance, as Robin navigates his place within an institution that uses him as a means to an end.

Overall, the book presents a dark academia narrative set against the backdrop of historical events, questioning the ethics and implications of knowledge used for imperial power.