Edward Wilson (1872-1912) accompanied Robert Falcon Scott on both his celebrated Antarctic voyages: the Discovery Expedition of 1901-1904 and the Terra Nova Expedition of 1910-1913. Wilson served as Junior Surgeon and Zoologist on Discovery and, on this expedition, with Scott and Ernest Shackleton he set a new Furthest South on 30 December 1902. He was Chief of Scientific Staff on the Terra Nova Expedition and reached the South Pole with Scott, Lawrence Oates, Henry Robertson Bowers and Edgar Evans on 18 January 1912, arriving there four weeks after the Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen. Wilson and his four companions died on the return journey. Trained as a physician, Wilson was also a skilled artist. His drawings and paintings lavishly illustrated both expeditions. He was the last major exploration artist; technological developments in the field of photography were soon to make cameras practical as a way of recording journeys into the unknown. This biography, the first full account of the Antarctic hero, traces his life from childhood to his tragic death.
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"Minor editing of repetitive sections would enhance this otherwise brilliant biography of a remarkable explorer. Highly recommended." --"The Historical Novels Review"
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6 of 6 people found the following review helpful
Format:Hardcover
An elegantly written book by Isobel Williams that can be read on many levels. This portrait reveals a noble man whose faith gave him strength of purpose in the most extreme conditions: an inspiration to Scott and their fellow explorers. He took his responsibilities as a doctor seriously; his research was rigorous and the paintings and drawings, executed in dire conditions are exquisite. He kept a thorough and balanced diary even in the bleak times. What an exceptional man.
The diligent research by a fellow doctor provides great insight into contemporary medical knowledge, (such as lack of adequate nutrition and the cause of scurvy) exploration and the current aspirations and concerns of society. Learning about the paucity of information and equipment makes the expeditions more remarkable.
This is a story of heroic adventure. The pace of the narrative reflects the unfolding drama of exploration in the Antarctic: a compulsive read, informative and enjoyable.
The diligent research by a fellow doctor provides great insight into contemporary medical knowledge, (such as lack of adequate nutrition and the cause of scurvy) exploration and the current aspirations and concerns of society. Learning about the paucity of information and equipment makes the expeditions more remarkable.
This is a story of heroic adventure. The pace of the narrative reflects the unfolding drama of exploration in the Antarctic: a compulsive read, informative and enjoyable.
3 of 3 people found the following review helpful
By Howard Hull
Format:Hardcover
Wilson's journeys to the Antarctic and the extraordinary artistic and scientific work he did there are remarkable achievements and have long begged a biographer able to capture the essence of the man behind them. Isobel William's portrait is itself a remarkable achievement and brings out the colours in Wilson's character, helping us to understand why Scott found no other companion more valuable, and how Wilson's relentless stoicism and good humour in the face of apalling suffering helped others to keep going. Williams reveals how Wilson's faith in God was at the core of his being, and gives us glimpses into the almost mystical form this took as conditions worsened. Wilson was exposed to conditions that are almost mind-boggling in their severity. Isobel Williams does not forget that she is dealing with high drama, and brings the story of these gruelling expeditions vividly to life.
7 of 8 people found the following review helpful
A Kid's Review
Format:Paperback
Scott's exporation of Antarctica and its tragic ending never fails to move me. They were all heroes but Edward Wilson (E.W.)shines out as exceptional; with 'Birdie' Bowers coming a close second. Such is my interest that I have read many books on Scott's expeditions, in particular those that focus on E.W. in an effort to get to know this exceptional man better. On receiving Isobel Williams book I read the 'Introduction' by Dr. Michael Stroud with excitement. He writes, "...but before I read this book, Wilson remained an enigma....He seemed a strange puzzle...I could not put these pieces together but Isobel Williams has let me do so." With Dr Stroud's pedigree I set off reading with interest expecting new knowledge and insight into E.W. I am sorry to say that in this context the book was a let down. If you have read Seavers work(s) on E.W. I believe it to be far more informative and interesting. At times I thought Isabel Williams was just writing another book on Scott's Antarctic exploration with the hook being E.W. I accept that on a couple of occasions new medical reasoning has been appied to unlock some of the myteries e.g. What was Edgar Evan's cause of death ?, but as regards E.W., well, to my mind, he deserved much much better. The book for me is sadly a missed opportunity on such a great and inspirational human being.
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful
By Tones
Format:Paperback
An incredibly interesting version of Scott's Antartic exploration - a refreshing and fresh take on a known adventurer with the added twist of looking to Edward Wilson for further insight. A must read. Thoroughly covered detail and very well written.
Format:Kindle Edition|Amazon Verified Purchase
By far the BEST book I have read relating to Scott's Antarctic expedition. In fact I have nearly finished reading it for the 2nd time !! Wilson was a remarkable man and this book, which is very well put together, illustrates this. I have no doubt that I will even read it again in the future. Bazz
Format:Paperback
After receiving this book as a gift from my thoughtful husband, not one I would have chosen myself(!) I have to say how pleasantly surprised I was. This was not only very well written but I feel has a wider reaching audience. I thought Isobel displayed the human characteristics of this great explorer with great skill and really brought Scott to life. A must read for all!
By Bill
Format:Paperback
Of the many books written about Scott and his south polar expeditions, this one provides a unique, critical assessment of a man who was on both the Discovery Expedition (1901-04) and the Terra Nova expedition (1910-13) - Edward Wilson. Here is a full account of Wilson, the man, tracing his life from childhood to his tragic death with Scott and his three companions on their return from the South Pole. Clearly, Edward Wilson was much more than an explorer; he was a man perhaps in advance of his time and Isobel Williams' treatment of his life story suggests this. This is a highly readable book for anyone interested in putting Wilson into context with the time and environment in which he lived. I recommend it very highly.
Format:Paperback
Dr William's extensive research has produced a most authoritative book. Edward Wilson was clearly a determined yet compassionate individual able to think clearly and calmly in the most adverse of situations. This book is factual but written with an easy style so that it is most readable. We all know the sad outcome of Scott's expedition but as the pages turn the account becomes more and more gripping. This is a book that would appeal to all ages whether or not previously interested in the Antarctic. I recommend it highly.
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Most Recent Customer Reviews
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With Scott in the Antarctic: Edward Wilson: Explorer, Naturalist,...
Isobel Williams gives a fascinating, detailed description of the life of this strong character whose reliability and even temper was a huge strength to his companions. Read more
Published on 24 Feb 2010 by J. C. Angel
5.0 out of 5 stars
With Scott in the Antarctic
This is a very well researched and detailed account of Edward Wilson's considerable contribution to Scott's Antarctic expeditions. Read more
Published on 27 Jan 2010 by Mrs. Janet M. Keeley
5.0 out of 5 stars
Brilliant read - five stars
Edward Wilson's story is one of almost unbelievable gallantry and endurance, so it was a pleasure to read an account that details the man behind legend. Read more
Published on 20 Jan 2010 by Max
5.0 out of 5 stars
Stirring stuff
What an excellent book this is. Isobel Williams has taken on board more facts that the 'Terra Nova' and managed to weave them into a gripping narrative that would rival any novel. Read more
Published on 4 Jan 2010 by R. L. Thomas
5.0 out of 5 stars
With Scott in the Antartic
This is a fascinating account of one of the most heroic series of journeys ever undertaken. But more than that, this biography gives an insight into the life of a man whose sense... Read more
Published on 1 Jan 2010 by C. S. Turner
5.0 out of 5 stars
Scott's right hand man
With the centenary approaching of the 'Terra Nova' sailing from Cardiff, Dr Williams builds on the earlier work of George Seaver and David Wilson with her medical insight to... Read more
Published on 15 Dec 2009 by Gary C. Gregor
5.0 out of 5 stars
Excellent Book
I thought this was a most interesting and well researched book and I thoroughly enjoyed it - congratulations to the author!
Published on 4 Nov 2009 by Mrs. A. Caryl Watkinson
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