Author : Edward E. Ayer Manuscript Collection (Newberry Library)
Publisher :
ISBN 13 :
Total Pages : 80 pages
Book Rating : 4.:/5 (357 download)
Book Synopsis "En Viaje" from Valparaiso to Tahiti by : Edward E. Ayer Manuscript Collection (Newberry Library)
Download or read book "En Viaje" from Valparaiso to Tahiti written by Edward E. Ayer Manuscript Collection (Newberry Library) and published by . This book was released on 1857 with total page 80 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Unsigned travel journal from 1857, containing an account of a voyage from Valparaíso, Chile, west across the Pacific to Tahiti in French Polynesia. The journal narrates the ship's stops at Sala y Gómez Island, Easter Island, Pitcairn Island, the Matilda Islands, now called Mururoa Atoll, and finally Tahiti and Moorea. The author describes the appearance of the islands as they loom up from the sea, their rocky cliffs, lush landscapes, and the seabirds and vegetation of the area. On Pitcairn Island, the few houses were built with wood from the ship "Bounty," as there is no timber available there; and the ship's cannons lie strewn around the beach. Also included are descriptions of the Polynesians: their physique, dress, jewelry, hairstyles, and character and morals. The author notes the disastrous effects of alcohol on the natives, and discusses the negative impact of the missionaries on the islands, especially the French Jesuits, who, in addition to preaching Catholicism, participate in the pearl trade, often forcing the natives to dive for them. The descriptions of Tahiti and the Tahitians are particularly detailed; the diarist admires their athletic bodies, handsome faces, and the crowns of flowers worn by the women to hold back their long hair, as well as their faithful, trustworthy, and affectionate nature. The one weakness of their character is their great indolence, and their inability to be motivated by any force except terror. There is further discussion of the missionary influence; the educational system, and morals; and explanations of how the natives tattoo their skin and make "tappa" cloth from the bark of breadfruit trees.
