Black Mischief

Evelyn Waugh's third novel, Black Mischief is a witty satirical novel set in the fictional empire of Azania in Africa's north east - but was inspired in part by the author's stint in Ethiopia as a journalist.

When Oxford-educated Emperor Seth succeeds to the throne of the African state of Azania, he has a tough job on his hands. His subjects are ill-informed and unruly, and corruption, double-dealing and bloodshed are rife. However, with the aid if Minister of Modernization Basil Seal, Seth plans to introduce his people to the civilized ways of the west - but will it be as simple as that?