The Ice : - Softcover

Pyne, Stephen J.

3.8

35 ratings by Goodreads

Softcover

ISBN 10: 075381773X ISBN 13: 9780753817735

Publisher: Phoenix Books, 2004

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Stephen Pyne's overwhelming fascination with Antarctica is the compelling force behind this major book on this stark and largely unknown continent. It combines a geophysical examination of the ice with an inspirational survey of how one of the most alien landscapes of our planet has shaped and affected man's life on earth throughout the centuries. The sheer immensity of the ice sheet is staggering. Its weight is sufficient to deform the globe. Interleaved with each scientific examination are historical surveys dealing with man's assimilation of Antarctica. Pyne reveals how Cook's voyages to Antarctica not only affected the history of science, but inspired such works as MOBY DICK and THE RIME OF THE ANCIENT MARINER.

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Review:

The Ice is a compilation of more about ice than you knew you wanted to know, yet sheer compelling significance holds attention page by page..Pyne conveys a view of Antarctica that interweaves physical science with humanistic inquiry and perception. His audacity as well as his presentation warrant admiration, for the implications of The Ice are vast.

(New York Times Book Review)

Stephen Pyne has written an imaginative book that combines a geophysical description of Antarctica with a history of attempts to explore and assimilate intellectually this remote and strange continent.

(Isis)

About the Author:

Stephen Pyne is an associate professor of history at Arizona State University-West. He spent three months in Antarctica as a recipient of the Antarctic Fellowship from the National Endowment for the Humanities.

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