The Bounty Story (Press, 3 March 1973)
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Summary: The Bounty Story (Press, 3 March 1973)
The book "Captain Bligh and Mr Christian: the Men and the Mutiny" by Richard Hough provides a fresh and captivating narrative of the infamous mutiny on the Bounty and the subsequent events involving the mutineers' settlement on Pitcairn Island. Despite the extensive literature already covering this historical incident, Hough's account stands out due to its thorough research and new materials. Notably, Hough has personally followed the routes taken by the Bounty and the small boat in which Captain Bligh and his loyal followers were set adrift, as well as the journey of the Pandora, which sought out the mutineers but tragically ended up wrecked. The author approaches the subject not merely as a historical recount but as an adventure story filled with drama, conflict, and the interplay of human relationships, particularly revolving around the competition for women among the sailors. Hough's narrative vividly brings to life the characters involved, including the key figures of Captain Bligh, Fletcher Christian, and various Polynesians, both friendly and hostile. Hough does not shy away from exploring the motivations behind the mutiny, suggesting that Bligh's violent temper towards Christian was rooted in feelings of homosexual jealousy. This theory is linked to Christian's time in Tahiti, where he became involved with a native woman called Isobel. The interpretations and conclusions drawn in this book are likely to spark discussions among historians, contributing to ongoing debates about the complexities surrounding the mutiny and its participants. Overall, "Captain Bligh and Mr Christian" is not just a historical account but an engaging exploration of a significant event in maritime history, enriched by Hough's narrative skill and the new insights he provides.
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