Voyages of Delusion: The Search for the North West Passage in the Age of Reason: The Quest for the Northwest Passage - Hardcover

Williams, Glyn

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0300098669 ISBN 13: 9780300098662

Publisher: Yale University Press, 2016

Synopsis

The eighteenth century-the Age of Reason-was characterized by determined attempts by philosophers, scientists, and political theorists to dispel myth, superstition, and ignorance. But the Age of Reason also witnessed some of the most irrational and vainglorious attempts by sailors and speculators to find a navigable Northwest Passage that would lead through the icy seas of the Arctic from Hudson Bay to the wealth of the Pacific Ocean. Lured by the promise of fame and riches, men endured paralyzing cold, malnutrition, and terrifying storms. Many lives and fortunes were lost in the quest for the elusive "maritime philosopher's stone." In this gripping work of narrative history, Glyn Williams describes the adventures and mishaps of these misguided expeditions. Vividly written and replete with fascinating characters, Voyages of Delusion is a riveting contribution to the history of North American exploration.

About this title

Review:

"[An] extraordinary history--strewn with shipwrecks and dashed hopes, enlivened by noble failures and ignoble intrigues....The story is gripping. Such tales of hardship and grizzled stoicism...could hardly fail to entertain."

"Should be bought by anyone interested in maritime history, 18th century history or the foibles of human nature."

About the Author:

Glyn Williams is emeritus professor of history at the University of London. He is the author of many highly acclaimed books, including The Prize of All the Oceans, Atlas of North American Exploration, and The Great South Sea, the last published by Yale University Press.

About this edition

• Publisher: Yale University Press
• Publication date: 2016
• ISBN 10: 0300098669
• ISBN 13: 9780300098662
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 496