Corea or Cho-sen: The Land of the Morning Calm

by Arnold Henry Savage Landor

"Corea or Cho-sen: The Land of the Morning Calm" by A. Henry Savage-Landor is a travelogue and cultural exploration written in the late 19th century. This work provides an in-depth look at the customs, landscape, and people of Corea (now known as Korea), reflecting the author's personal observations from his extended stay in the region. The narrative is rich with details about Corean life, including its history, societal norms, and the bustling port cities that Landor encounters on his journey. The opening of the book sets the stage for Landor's adventures as he describes his journey to Corea on a Christmas Day steamer from Japan in 1890. He vividly recounts his first experiences upon arrival at the port of Fusan, including his interactions with various individuals, such as a body-snatcher whose story hints at the country's complex history. Landor's writing captures the unique atmosphere of the Corean landscape and the people he meets, ranging from amused sailors to curious locals, while also touching on the important economic role of cotton production in the region. This section effectively introduces the reader to the colorful tapestry of Corean society that Landor seeks to document throughout the book.