Publisher's Synopsis
A First Rate Tragedy movingly recounts the events which lead to a tragedy that continues to capture the popular imagination. Drawing on new research, the author analyses the reasons why Scott's carefully planned expedition failed while Amundsen's opportunistic dash to the South Pole succeeded. Nevertheless, Scott and his men achieved something remarkable. The final trio struggled for 1450 mile in the worst conditions of earth - and had they managed just 350 yards more per day after leaving the Pole, they would have reached the supplies that could have saved them. Diana Preston also explores the personalities behind the story, particularly the elusive character of Scott - a man who never felt quite master of his destiny, who believed himself inherently unlucky, and who was not a natural leader, but who inspired deep loyalty among his men.
