"The Sot-Weed Factor" is a historical novel by John Barth, published in 1960. Set in the 17th century, it follows the adventures of Ebenezer Cooke, a naive poet who travels from England to the American colonies. The story explores themes of identity, colonialism, and the complexities of human nature. The title refers to a type of tobacco, which was a significant cash crop in the colonies. The novel is known for its rich language and satirical tone, as it critiques both the colonial experience and the literary conventions of the time, drawing on influences from authors like Cervantes and Swift.