An Empire of Ice: Scott, Shackleton, and the Heroic Age of Antarctic Science

Edward J. Larson

May 2011 · Yale University Press

About this ebook

A Pulitzer Prize–winning author examines South Pole expeditions, “wrapping the science in plenty of dangerous drama to keep readers engaged” (Booklist).
 
An Empire of Ice presents a fascinating new take on Antarctic exploration—placing the famed voyages of Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen, his British rivals Robert Scott and Ernest Shackleton, and others in a larger scientific, social, and geopolitical context.
 
Recounting the Antarctic expeditions of the early twentieth century, the author reveals the British efforts for what they actually were: massive scientific enterprises in which reaching the South Pole was but a spectacular sideshow. By focusing on the larger purpose of these legendary adventures, Edward J. Larson deepens our appreciation of the explorers’ achievements, shares little-known stories, and shows what the Heroic Age of Antarctic discovery was really about.
 
“Rather than recounting the story of the race to the pole chronologically, Larson concentrates on various scientific disciplines (like meteorology, glaciology and paleontology) and elucidates the advances made by the polar explorers . . . Covers a lot of ground—science, politics, history, adventure.” —The New York Times Book Review

Ratings and reviews

This is certain to be a pleasant read for those interested in the scientific avenues that were advanced by Antarctic exploration. The chapters are divided according to scientific discipline and generally stay in their respective lanes; this is great for what the book is trying to achieve, but I appreciate that some readers won't enjoy having to repeatedly 'rewind time' for each topic. For the sorts looking for a more personable, linear tale of struggle in the Antarctic, you're probably better off not investing in this. To those interested in the history of science, however, I think this should be worth your while.

About the author

Edward J. Larson is university professor of history and holds the Hugh & Hazel Darling Chair in Law at Pepperdine University. His numerous books include Summer for the Gods: The Scopes Trial and America's Continuing Debate over Science and Religion, for which he received a Pulitzer Prize in History. Larson splits his time between Georgia and California.