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Meridians (Geodesy) -- Fiction Books

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Jules Verne

Meridiana: The Adventures of Three Englishmen and Three Russians In South Africa

"Meridiana: The Adventures of Three Englishmen and Three Russians" by Jules Verne is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around a scientific expedition led by an English astronomer, William Emery, along with a bushman named Mokoum, as they await the arrival of other members of an international commission on the banks of the Orange River in South Africa. Together, they embark on a journey filled with exploration, adventure, and the challenges of gathering precise measurements of the Earth's meridian. At the start of the story, William Emery and Mokoum are introduced as they wait at the Falls of Morgheda for the arrival of Colonel Everest and his companions from England. The opening chapters depict the stark beauty of the African landscape, the dynamic relationship between the eager bushman and the patient astronomer, and the suspense surrounding the delayed arrival of their fellow scientists. As the narrative unfolds, we see their preparations for the challenges ahead, including the logistics of their expedition and the significance of measuring the arc of the meridian, setting the stage for an adventure that melds science with thrilling exploration in an uncharted land.

Jules Verne

Avonturen van drie Russen en drie Engelschen, Gevolgd door 'De Blokkadebrekers'

"Avonturen van drie Russen en drie Engelschen, Gevolgd door 'De Blokkadebrekers'" by Jules Verne is an adventurous novel likely written in the mid-19th century. The narrative follows an expedition led by astronomer William Emery and his companion Mokum, a skilled Bushman guide, as they await the arrival of a scientific commission by the Oranje River in southern Africa. The book explores themes of exploration and discovery against the backdrop of the diverse and challenging landscapes of Africa. The opening of the novel sets the scene along the banks of the Oranjerivier, where Emery and Mokum are stationed, waiting for their fellow expedition members from England. As they converse, their personalities emerge: Emery is composed and scientific-minded, while Mokum is restless and eager to hunt. This introduction highlights their differing perspectives and expectations for the journey ahead. The narrative builds anticipation for the arrival of the English expedition team and the purpose of their mission, which is to conduct a meridian measurement in the region. Verne vividly describes the natural beauty surrounding them and establishes a sense of both camaraderie and tension as they prepare for the challenges that await.

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