Essay Questions

What character traits are exhibited by Sir Ernest Shackleton?

Embarking on such a dangerous voyage as to cross the continent of Antarctica requires nothing short of courage and determination. Sir Ernest Shackleton exhibits a great deal of courage in his quest to break this record. In this way, he can be argued as an ambitious and striving individual. Even though the journey sets off well, after some time in what can be argued as utter tragedy, the ship, Endurance sinks. While some individuals and crew members survive, it takes a toll on Shackleton who has to work to rescue his crewmen through the wilderness. Because he does not quite accomplish his goal, and as a result of the struggle that follows him, Sir Ernest Shackleton can be argued as unlucky. On the other hand, he exhibits great stamina and endurance which can be argued as his dominant character trait.

How is tragedy brought out in this book?

Tragedy is not something that is obscurely presented in this work as it hangs around the heads of the crew members of the Endurance. After setting off on a voyage to cross the continent of Antarctica, the ship on which the characters are sailing seems unbeatable. However, the ship and its crew seem to be out of luck as in a tragic turn of events it crashes onto an ice block. While some of the people on board manage to escape there is a loss of life. Shackleton in his attempts to save his crew members faces the wilderness and the tragedies that come with it. After struggling, he manages to come and rescue his crew members. However, tragedy is engraved in the presentation of events in this work.

How is determination as a theme brought out in this book?

Determination is a trait that runs deep in Sir Ernest’s attempt to break the record for the crossing of Antarctica. After months of preparation and the journey begins, the efforts of the crew and months of preparation are negated when the ship hits ice and sinks. Sir Ernest Shackleton exhibits a great deal of determination as he launches the mission to save the remaining crew members. The journey is highlighted by problems but he manages to save his men. In this way, determination as a theme is brought out in this work.