The Myth of the Explorer (Scott Polar Research series) - Tapa dura

Explorers are modern hero-figures of mythic proportions. The names of Stanley, Peary, Scott, Amundsen, Nansen, and many others who have penetrated to the ends of the Earth conjure up strong images of heroism, self sacrifice, patriotism, and vision that may be at odds with the reality of failure, deception, greed, incompetence and ignorance that attended many expeditions. The fascinating question of how such myths were created by circulation-hungry newspapers and other media is the subject that is tackled in this original book. Concentrating on the "Golden Age" of exploration between 1855 and 1910, Riffenburgh examines how the Anglo-American press created the popular culture of the explorer and how the insatiable appetite for "derring-do" led to sometimes shabby actions as well as genuine bravery and scientific achievement. Based on extensive original research, the book reassesses many (not only Polar) explorers' reputations and makes intriguing links between popular culture, the growth of science, imperialism, and the role of the media.