Subject
Iceland -- Description and travel Books
Best books
Richard Francis Burton
Ultima Thule; or, A Summer in Iceland. vol. 1/2
"Ultima Thule; or, A Summer in Iceland. vol. 1/2" by Sir Richard Francis Burton is a travelogue and exploratory account written in the late 19th century. The work documents Burton's journey to Iceland, aiming to provide readers with an in-depth understanding of the geography, culture, and experiences of the island as seen through the author’s eyes. At the start of the narrative, Burton reflects on the misconceptions held about Iceland by previous travelers, whom he believes have exaggerated the island's dangers and supernatural qualities. He shares his own expectations and hypotheses about Iceland, differentiating between what he perceives as sensational exaggerations and the more mundane reality of the landscape and culture. As he prepares for his exploration, he lays the groundwork for a measured and thoughtful exploration of Iceland, hinting at an investigative approach that contrasts with the romanticized views often expressed by other authors.
W. S. C. (Waterman Spaulding Chapman) Russell
Iceland: Horseback tours in saga land
"Iceland: Horseback Tours in Saga Land" by W. S. C. Russell is a travel narrative written in the early 20th century. This work explores the landscapes, history, and culture of Iceland, as observed through the author's extensive travels across the country during the early 1900s. The author shares his fascination with the Icelandic people, their traditions, and the enchanting scenery that defines the land, while most likely weaving in historical insights. The opening of the book sets the stage for an exploration of Iceland's unique geographical and cultural landscape. It begins with a foreword detailing the author's motivations for writing, emphasizing the lack of authoritative English accounts of Iceland and expressing a desire to share his experiences. The first chapter, titled "Historical," delves into the history of Iceland, tracing its discovery and settlement by influential Viking leaders from Norway. Russell paints a vivid picture of the land's natural beauty and the character of its people, setting the tone for an adventurous journey filled with horseback riding through Iceland's rugged terrain. This introductory section effectively invites readers to engage with the author's narratives, promising insights into the rich tapestry of Icelandic heritage and the landscapes that inspired it.
Ida Pfeiffer
Visit to Iceland and the Scandinavian North
"Visit to Iceland and the Scandinavian North" by Ida Pfeiffer is a travel narrative written in the mid-19th century. The book chronicles Pfeiffer’s journey as she embarks on an adventure to Iceland, driven by her deep curiosity and passion for exploring unique natural phenomena and cultures. As a pioneering female traveler of her time, her experiences illustrate the challenges she faced while traveling alone in a male-dominated society, offering insights into her encounters with the land and its people. The opening of the book establishes Pfeiffer as a determined explorer who begins her journey from Vienna, recounting her departure and initial travels through various European locales before finally reaching the shores of Iceland. In her preface, she shares her lifelong desire to explore the world, which was brought to fruition through her travels. The narrative details her preparations for the trip, her reflections on the societal expectations regarding women travelers, and the sense of purpose that compels her toward the unknown. As she sets sail, readers learn of her physical discomforts and encounters on the ship en route to Iceland, heightening the anticipation for the sights and cultural experiences that await her in this extraordinary North Atlantic island.
Pliny Miles
Norðurfari; or, Rambles in Iceland
"Norðurfari; or, Rambles in Iceland" by Pliny Miles is a travel narrative written in the mid-19th century. The book chronicles the author's adventures as he journeys to Iceland, exploring its natural beauty, culture, and history, and provides a remarkable commentary on the people and landscapes he encounters. With a mix of personal reflection and historical insight, the narrative aims to depict the real Iceland, dispelling myths and misconceptions about the island. At the start of the narrative, Miles describes his voyage to Iceland aboard the schooner "Sölöven," detailing stops in Copenhagen and Elsinore before finally arriving in Reykjavik. He vividly recounts the ship's experiences, including challenges of the journey, interactions with fellow passengers, and a celebratory Fourth of July marked by cannon fire and spirited oration. The opening focuses on the excitement of travel, the camaraderie among passengers, and the author's first impressions of Iceland's unique geography and culture, setting the stage for deeper explorations to come.
Richard Francis Burton
Ultima Thule; or, A Summer in Iceland. vol. 2/2
"Ultima Thule; or, A Summer in Iceland" by Sir Richard Francis Burton is a travel narrative written in the late 19th century. This work serves as a detailed exploration of Iceland, documenting its geography, culture, and society based on Burton's experiences during a summer visit. The narrative captures his observations on various aspects, such as education, local customs, and natural phenomena, offering readers a vivid portrayal of the island's character. The opening of the book introduces a detailed examination of the state of education in Iceland during Burton's time, including the historical background of printing and literary societies. It recounts visits to schools and libraries, emphasizing their condition and the nature of the education provided, which is critiqued for its superficiality. The narrative captures Burton's interactions with local scholars and his observations about the importance of language and literature in Iceland, echoing his broader reflections on Icelandic identity and culture. Through these opening chapters, readers are set up for a lyrical and informative journey through both physical and intellectual landscapes of Iceland.
Andrew James Symington
Pen and pencil sketches of Faröe and Iceland : $b With an appendix containing translations from the Icelandic and 51 illustrations engraved on wood by W. J. Linton
"Pen and Pencil Sketches of Faröe and Iceland" by Andrew James Symington is a travelogue written in the mid-19th century. This work combines personal diary entries with observations made during Symington's journey to the remote islands of Faröe and Iceland, aiming to capture the natural beauty and cultural richness of these northern climes. The book features sketches and insights about Icelandic life, landscapes, and the author's interactions with local inhabitants, all presented in an engaging and picturesque style. The opening portion of the travelogue introduces readers to Symington's preparations for his voyage to Iceland, detailing his contemplation of different travel options and the eventual choice to board the mail steamer "Arcturus." He vividly describes the ship's departure from Leith, the atmosphere on board with fellow passengers, and his feelings of anticipation and wonder as they journey through the North Sea. In addition, Symington begins to share his impressions of the landscapes, local life, and the natural phenomena that characterize both Faröe and Iceland, setting the stage for a rich exploration of these extraordinary places throughout the remainder of his narrative.
W. (William) Bisiker
Across Iceland
"Across Iceland" by W. Bisiker is a travelogue written in the early 20th century. The book describes an adventurous journey across Central Iceland, detailing not only the geography and natural wonders encountered but also the experiences of a diverse group of travelers who are equally interested in exploration and scientific study. The narrative likely centers around a semi-scientific party that includes botanists, geologists, and a geographer, among others. The opening of the work sets the scene for this notable expedition, beginning with the preparations and the embarking of the party from Leith. As they navigate the foggy seas towards Iceland, the personalities within the group are introduced, each with unique skills and interests, underpinning a sense of camaraderie. The author describes their first encounters with nature, such as foggy nights at sea and observations of the Faroes, all while foreshadowing the challenges ahead in the uninhabited terrains of Iceland. The tone is both informative and engaging, hinting at a blend of adventure and scientific inquiry that will characterize their journey through the breathtaking yet treacherous landscapes of Iceland.
Anonymous
The story of Ida Pfeiffer and her travels in many lands
"The Story of Ida Pfeiffer and Her Travels in Many Lands" by Anonymous is a travel narrative written in the late 19th century. This account explores the adventurous life and journeys of Ida Pfeiffer, a pioneering female traveler born in Vienna, who defied societal norms to embark on extensive travels across various continents. Through her remarkable expeditions, she not only sought out new cultures and experiences but also contributed to the understanding of geography and ethnology from a woman's perspective. The opening of the narrative introduces readers to Ida Pfeiffer's early life, detailing her spirited personality and her familial influences that shaped her adventuristic desires. As she navigates the challenges of growing up as an unconventional girl in early 19th-century Europe, her longing for travel takes root. The text describes her initial journeys, including significant trips to the Holy Land and Iceland, where she developed her writing style and garnered attention for her explorations. Upon her husband’s death and her eventual inheritance, Pfeiffer's determination led her to undertake a remarkable voyage around the world, showcasing not only her bravery but also her deep curiosity for different peoples and cultures. The narrative sets the stage for her extensive travels and the challenges she faced as a woman explorer in her era.
Mrs. (Ethel) Alec-Tweedie
A Girl's Ride in Iceland
"A Girl's Ride in Iceland" by Mrs. Alec-Tweedie is an adventurous travelogue written in the late 19th century. The narrative follows the author and her companions as they embark on an audacious journey to Iceland, overcoming societal conventions regarding women's roles in travel and riding. The text combines a personal account of their expedition, emphasizing the landscape, culture, and challenges of traveling in Iceland during that era. At the start of the narrative, the author shares her idea of traveling to Iceland as an alternative to the typical tourist destinations. Initially met with skepticism from her peers, her resolve strengthens, leading her to organize a small party with her brother and friends for this unique expedition. The opening chapters describe their preparations and experiences aboard the steamer "Camoens" as they navigate the rough seas towards Iceland, detailing various mishaps and the lively atmosphere on board, which sets the stage for their adventures upon arrival in this mysterious and starkly beautiful land.
Frederick Temple Blackwood Dufferin and Ava
Letters from High Latitudes Being Some Account of a Voyage in 1856 of the Schooner Yacht "Foam" to Iceland, Jan Meyen, and Spitzbergen
"Letters from High Latitudes" by Lord Dufferin is a travel book written in 1856, recounting his voyage to Iceland, Jan Mayen, and Spitzbergen aboard the schooner Foam. Written as diary entries in the form of letters to his mother, the book captures adventures through volcanic plains, geysers, and Arctic islands with irreverent humor and lively wit. Its comic style made it extraordinarily successful, remaining in print for decades and translated into multiple languages, establishing it as the prototype of the comic travelogue.
William Lord Watts
Across the Vatna Jökull; or, Scenes in Iceland Being a Description of Hitherto Unkown Regions
"Across the Vatna Jökull; or, Scenes in Iceland" by William Lord Watts is a travel account written in the late 19th century. This work documents the author's adventurous journey through Iceland, focusing specifically on the Vatna Jökull glacier and the surrounding regions that had been relatively unexplored at the time. The narrative captures both the rugged landscapes and the challenges faced by the author and his companions, providing insights into Icelandic culture and the formidable natural environment. The opening of the book sets the stage for an expedition filled with both anticipation and skepticism from other people in the author's life. It begins with Watts arriving in Reykjavík for another journey across the Vatna Jökull and reflects on his past travels, noting reactions from countrymen who view such adventures as foolish. Introducing readers to his travel companions and preparations, he describes the conditions under which they set off, including a challenging ride over rough terrain and interactions with the local Icelanders. As he embarks on this latest endeavor, the narrative promises an exploration not just of the physical landscape but also of the emotional and cultural dimensions of Icelandic life, woven with personal musings and vivid descriptions of the natural world.
Louis-Frédéric Rouquette
L'Ile d'Enfer
"L'Ile d'Enfer" by Louis-Frédéric Rouquette is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative follows the journey of the main character, Freddy, as he embarks on an adventurous voyage to Iceland, reflecting on his life, past experiences, and the longing for new horizons amid the'struggles of maritime life and adventure. Filled with vivid descriptions, the story promises a blend of exploration and introspection. At the start of the book, Freddy stands at a quay, preparing to board the cargo ship Yport, contemplating his departure from a hectic Paris to the alluring, yet harsh, landscapes of Iceland. He encounters various characters, including the ship’s captain, Deshayes, and a barmaid, who evoke reflections on his life choices and motivations. The atmosphere contrasts the oppressive heat of Bordeaux with the cold promise of Iceland, as he gradually detaches from his previous worries and anticipates the new experiences awaiting him on this adventure. The setting is rich with maritime imagery, highlighting the hustle and bustle of the port life and the camaraderie among sailors, setting the stage for Freddy’s exploratory journey.
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