Polynesian Mythology · Chapter
Preface to the Second Edition explained
Sir George Grey reflects on the thirty years since the first edition, noting the deaths of many Māori chiefs who assisted him, the impact of war, and the preservation of Māori legends, poems, and histories.
What happens
Sir George Grey reflects on the thirty years since the first edition, noting the deaths of many Māori chiefs who assisted him, the impact of war, and the preservation of Māori legends, poems, and histories. He details the collection of 301 printed volumes and 223 manuscripts in the Cape of Good Hope library, emphasizing the importance of republishing the catalogue in New Zealand. He recounts the discovery of the Hinemoa legend on Mokoia in 1849 and acknowledges contributions from European and Māori collaborators.
Themes in this chapter
Cultural Preservation and Loss
Grey emphasizes the urgent need to preserve Māori legends, poems, and histories before they are lost, noting the deaths of the chiefs who supplied them.
Colonial Encounter and Governance
The preface discusses the relationship between British and Māori, including war, land disputes, and the role of the House of Representatives in commemorating Māori courage.
Resistance and Resilience
Grey highlights the heroic courage of Māori adversaries who fought against superior numbers and weapons, and the preservation of their memory by the conquering race.
Characters to notice
- Hinemoa
Her legend was told to Grey by a native chief on Mokoia island in 1849.
Key passages
“I desired to preserve, and they aided me in preserving, a memento of a noble race, in its original state when first discovered.”
Grey wanted to create a record of Māori life as it was before European contact, and the chiefs helped him achieve this.
Reflects the collaborative effort to document Māori culture.
“The discovery of this legend, on December 26, 1849, created a strong sensation of pleasure in many minds in New Zealand.”
When Grey recorded the Hinemoa legend on that date, it brought great delight to many people in New Zealand.
Highlights the impact of uncovering a previously unknown Māori romance.