A Negro Explorer at the North Pole · Chapter
II explained
The chapter covers the departure of the Roosevelt from Oyster Bay, the farewell to families, and the journey northward through Sydney, Hawks Harbor, and Cape York.
What happens
The chapter covers the departure of the Roosevelt from Oyster Bay, the farewell to families, and the journey northward through Sydney, Hawks Harbor, and Cape York. Henson describes the expedition members, the acquisition of dogs and supplies from the Eskimos, and the challenges of trading and managing the local people. The chapter ends with the arrival at Etah on August 12.
Themes in this chapter
Cultural Exchange and Imperialism
Henson describes trading with Eskimos, teaching them English phrases, and the power dynamics of selecting which Eskimos to take along.
Class and Servitude
Henson's role as a go-between for the Commander and the Eskimos, and his reflections on the different social positions of expedition members.
Exploration and Discovery
The chapter details the early stages of the polar journey, including navigation, hunting, and preparation for the Arctic.
Characters to notice
- Matthew Henson
Narrator and key expedition member, busy with trading, hunting, and managing Eskimos.
- Commander Robert E. Peary
Leader of the expedition, described as tall with gray hair, steel-gray eyes, and a commanding voice.
- Captain Bob Bartlett
Ship captain, described as quick, strong, and knowledgeable; handles the landing at Eskimo settlements.
- Professor Ross G. Marvin
Quiet and earnest, balding, with a long neck; has taken interest in teaching Henson navigation.
- Professor Donald B. MacMillan
One of the 'tenderfeet,' a college professor from Massachusetts; Henson plans to cultivate his acquaintance.
- George Borup
Youngest member at 21, athletic and cheerful; one of the 'tenderfeet.'
- Dr. J. W. Goodsell
Fine-looking, big fellow with swarthy complexion; another 'tenderfoot.'
- Chief Engineer Wardwell
Ruddy-complexioned giant with honest eyes and great patience; oversees the engines.
Key passages
“It is amusing to hear Kudlooktoo in the most charming manner give Charley a cussing that from anyone else would cause Charley to break his head open.”
Henson finds it funny that Kudlooktoo swears at Charley in a sweet tone, which would normally provoke a fight.
Shows the cultural blending and humor in the expedition's interactions with Eskimos.
“I have been up to my neck in work, and have had small opportunity to keep my diary up to date.”
Henson has been extremely busy with trading, hunting, and other tasks, leaving little time for journaling.
Highlights the demanding nature of the expedition's preparatory work.
“I am making no judgments or comments on these fellows now. Wait; I have seen too many enthusiastic starters, and I am sorry to say some of them did not finish well.”
Henson withholds judgment on the new members, having witnessed previous recruits who started strong but failed later.
Reflects Henson's seasoned perspective and caution about the challenges ahead.
