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Quatermain, Allan (Fictitious character) -- Fiction Books
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H. Rider (Henry Rider) Haggard
King Solomon's Mines
"King Solomon's Mines" by H. Rider Haggard is a novel published in 1885. It follows adventurer Allan Quatermain as he leads an expedition into unexplored Africa to find a missing aristocrat's brother and locate the legendary treasure of King Solomon. The journey takes them across deadly deserts and into a hidden kingdom ruled by a ruthless king. There, they become entangled in ancient prophecies, witch hunts, and a brewing rebellion. Considered the genesis of the lost world literary genre, it captivates with perilous adventure and mystery.
H. Rider (Henry Rider) Haggard
Allan and the Holy Flower
"Allan and the Holy Flower" by H. Rider Haggard is an adventure novel published in 1915. When Allan Quatermain brings an enormous rare orchid back from Africa, it sets off an extraordinary chain of events. A young Englishman loses his inheritance after accidentally paying a fortune for the flower at auction, then resolves to mount an expedition to find a living specimen in the African wilderness. The journey leads them through encounters with slave traders, warrior tribes, cannibals, and a giant gorilla.
H. Rider (Henry Rider) Haggard
Allan Quatermain
"Allan Quatermain" by H. Rider Haggard is a novel published in 1887. This sequel to "King Solomon's Mines" follows the legendary explorer as he ventures deep into uncharted African territory with his companions. Seeking escape after personal tragedy, Quatermain discovers the hidden kingdom of Zu-Vendis, ruled by two rival sisters. What begins as exploration transforms into deadly conflict when forbidden love and political intrigue ignite a devastating civil war in this lost civilization.
H. Rider (Henry Rider) Haggard
Child of Storm
"Child of Storm" by H. Rider Haggard is a novel written during the early 20th century, specifically in the context of the Zulu kingdom and its turbulent history. The narrative follows Allan Quatermain, an English hunter and explorer, as he recounts his experiences in the land of the Zulus, a setting rich with cultural tension and dramatic conflict. The story centers on the enchanting yet deadly Mameena, a woman whose beauty and ambition draw men to their doom, particularly that of the young warrior Saduko, alongside whom Quatermain navigates the complexities of Zulu politics and personal relationships. The opening of "Child of Storm" establishes both a personal and historical context, with Quatermain reflecting on the nature of humanity through his encounters with the Zulu people and their customs. He relates a fateful moment when he hears of Mameena for the first time, highlighting her character as a crafty and alluring figure amidst the backdrop of power struggles between Zulu princes. Quatermain's observations introduce readers to the main characters and foreshadow the unfolding drama rooted in love, betrayal, and the tumult of impending war, emphasizing the peril that lies ahead for those who become entangled in the web of Mameena's ambitions. Thus, the narrative is steeped in both adventure and the stark realities of a society on the brink of change.
H. Rider (Henry Rider) Haggard
She and Allan
"She and Allan" by H. Rider Haggard is a novel published in 1921. The story brings together two of Haggard's most famous characters: the immortal sorceress Ayesha and adventurer Allan Quatermain. Seeking to communicate with the dead, Quatermain journeys north to find a mysterious white queen who rules a hidden kingdom. Accompanied by the warrior Umslopogaas, he ventures into unknown territory where he encounters cannibals, ancient ruins, and the veiled Ayesha herself, whose supernatural powers may hold the answers he seeks.
H. Rider (Henry Rider) Haggard
Marie: An Episode in the Life of the Late Allan Quatermain
"Marie: An Episode in the Life of the Late Allan Quatermain" by H. Rider Haggard is a novel published in 1912. This adventure follows a young Allan Quatermain as he falls in love with Marie Marais, a Boer farm girl whose father opposes their romance due to his hatred of the English. Her villainous cousin also desires Marie for himself. Set against the backdrop of the Great Trek and real historical events, Quatermain must repeatedly rescue Marie from deadly dangers while fighting for their forbidden love.
H. Rider (Henry Rider) Haggard
Finished
"Finished" by H. Rider Haggard is a historical novel set in the late 19th century, continuing the adventure of Allan Quatermain, a character previously introduced in Haggard's earlier works. The book serves as the third part of a trilogy that includes "Marie" and "Child of Storm." The narrative follows Quatermain as he navigates the political tensions of the Zulu War and grapples with themes of vengeance and destiny in his interactions with powerful figures like the wizard Zikali and King Cetewayo, along with modern characters like Maurice Anscombe. At the start of the narrative, the author introduces the historical backdrop of the events leading to the Zulu War, highlighting Quatermain's perspective on the annexation of the Transvaal. The opening chapters present a lively encounter between Quatermain and various characters, including Anscombe, who becomes his companion on a buffalo hunt. However, their adventure quickly spirals into danger as they face ambushes and conflicts with the Basutos, forcing them to seek refuge with Marnham, a man with a mysterious past. The tension between colonial forces and indigenous populations unfolds, foreshadowing the tribal complexities and personal struggles that will drive the plot forward.
H. Rider (Henry Rider) Haggard
Allan's Wife
"Allan's Wife" by H. Rider Haggard is a collection of Allan Quatermain stories first published in 1889. The title novella reveals Quatermain's early life and marriage to Stella, mother of his son Harry. Three companion tales follow the legendary hunter through dangerous African encounters: battling a vengeful buffalo, avenging a servant killed by lions, and surviving a brutal lion mauling. Together, these adventures chronicle the formative experiences that shaped one of literature's most celebrated adventurers.
H. Rider (Henry Rider) Haggard
The Ancient Allan
"The Ancient Allan" by H. Rider Haggard is a novel featuring the hunter Allan Quatermain. When Quatermain and Lady Ragnall inhale Taduki, a drug inducing visions of past lives, they experience ancient incarnations in Persian-ruled Egypt. Quatermain relives his existence as Egyptian aristocrat Shabaka during a revolt against Persian domination, while familiar characters reappear in different forms. This adventure blends historical romance with fantastical elements of reincarnation, telepathy, and Egyptian mysticism, suggesting the goddess Isis's curse follows characters through successive lifetimes.
H. Rider (Henry Rider) Haggard
Maiwa's Revenge; Or, The War of the Little Hand
"Maiwa's Revenge; Or, The War of the Little Hand" by H. Rider Haggard is a novel written during the late 19th century. The book revolves around Allan Quatermain, a veteran hunter and adventurer, as he navigates the treacherous landscapes of Africa while engaging with various tribes and the challenges they present. The story is rich with themes of colonialism, the consequences of hunting, and the quest for justice. The opening of the novel introduces the protagonist, Allan Quatermain, as he embarks on a shooting excursion with his companions in Yorkshire. Throughout this portion, the elements of hunting and camaraderie are highlighted, showcasing Quatermain's exceptional shooting skills. The narrative transitions to foreshadow looming threats as it precedes the introduction of Maiwa, who carries a dire message from a character named John Every. The message warns Quatermain of danger from Wambe, a cruel chief, and sets the stage for themes of revenge, survival, and political intrigue in the African bush. The stage is effectively set for an adventurous tale that explores not only physical peril but also moral dilemmas and the bonds of friendship.
H. Rider (Henry Rider) Haggard
Hunter Quatermain's Story
"Hunter Quatermain's Story" by H. Rider Haggard is a narrative that blends adventure and personal storytelling, likely written during the late 19th century. This book encapsulates the life and experiences of Allan Quatermain, a seasoned hunter and adventurer in Africa, as he recounts encounters that highlight both peril and the profound connections formed in the wilderness. The story serves as a reflection on survival, the harsh realities of exploration, and the poignant moments of companionship in the face of danger. In this tale, Quatermain details a harrowing adventure he undertook in the African wilderness. After a disastrous encounter where he loses his camp and supplies to a fire, he embarks on a treacherous journey back to civilization with two companions, Mashune and Hans. As they navigate through challenging conditions, they are plagued by hunger, illness, and the ever-present threat of predators. The narrative peaks with a heart-stopping encounter with a lion and a deadly clash with a buffalo, leading to tragic consequences for Hans and Mashune. Ultimately, the story is a testament to the harsh yet captivating life of hunting and exploration, highlighting survival against the odds and the deep bonds formed under duress.
H. Rider (Henry Rider) Haggard
The Ivory Child
"The Ivory Child" by H. Rider Haggard is a novel featuring Allan Quatermain. Two priests from the White Kendah People travel to England seeking Quatermain's help. Their people face annihilation from the Black Kendah, whose evil god inhabits the largest elephant ever seen—a beast no man can kill. Quatermain must return to Africa to destroy this supernatural threat before an entire civilization perishes. The novel explores themes of memory loss and fate.
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