This is a chronicle of Ferdinand Magellan's circumnavigation of the world, from his meager beginnings in Portugal, to his spectacular end in the Philippines. From the kings who empowered him, to the nobles who sought to ruin him, and the mutinies that tried to thwart him, Magellan sails, with Christian-inspired equanimity, through every difficulty in the pursuit of his elusive goal. Did his faith grant him his courage? Mr. Bergreen's vivid description of Magellan's death is a strong argument that it was. But even if his courage was purchased by the consoling promise of something more in Heaven, his bravery is still a remarkable thing. After all, he wasn't the only one with faith in the 16th century and yet he was the one who forged a remarkable mission, a goal, out of fractious crews and greedy and jealous courts.
This is a lengthy but fascinating account of life at sea as seen through the eyes of a nobleman's obsession to see the world, to map its confines, and to earn glory and fortune for himself and his family while doing so. The dangers, superstitions and rivalries he experienced throughout have proven to be quite unforgetable. The bravery, to confront the unknown with such boldness is, to say the least, impressive. And Mr. Bergreen retells it well. (3/5 Stars)
No comments:
Post a Comment