# III: The Plateau from Mount Darwin to Lat. 87° 2′ S. explained — The Worst Journey in the World

> Chapter companion for The Worst Journey in the World by Apsley Cherry-Garrard.

## What happens

The chapter details the final ascent onto the polar plateau, the organization of the two sledging teams, and the decision to send back the last supporting party. It highlights the physical strain on the men, particularly the second team, and the beginning of Edgar Evans' decline. Bowers' diary entries describe the harsh conditions, the relentless southerly wind, and the challenges of man-hauling on the high plateau.

## Themes in this chapter

### Human Endurance and Suffering

The men endure extreme cold, altitude, and physical exhaustion while man-hauling heavy sledges across the plateau.

### Leadership and Decision Making

Scott's decision to take five men to the Pole and to send back the supporting party reflects his leadership under uncertainty.

### Contrast Between Ambition and Reality

Scott's hopeful notes contrast with the growing physical deterioration of the team, especially Evans.

## Character check-ins

### Captain Scott

Leads the first team, makes the decision to take five men to the Pole, and writes hopeful notes home.

### Birdie Bowers

Keeps a detailed diary of the plateau journey, noting the heavy sledging, the wind, and the effects of altitude.

### Edgar Evans

The first man to show signs of collapse; likely injured his hand while changing sledge runners.

### William Lashly

Part of the second team; his man-hauling feat from Corner Camp to beyond 87° S. is noted as one of the great polar achievements.

### Teddy Evans

Leads the last supporting party that turns back on January 4, 1912.

### Tom Crean

Part of the supporting party that turns back with Teddy Evans and Lashly.

### Titus Oates

Part of Scott's team on the plateau, mentioned as one of the five chosen for the Polar Party.

### Edward A. Wilson

Part of Scott's team, referred to as Dr. Bill in Bowers' diary.

## Key lines

> What castles one builds now hopefully that the Pole is ours

Scott felt optimistic about reaching the South Pole.

_Expresses Scott's hopeful anticipation after the supporting party left._

> I am exceedingly fit and can go with the best of them

Scott considered himself physically capable of continuing to the Pole.

_Shows Scott's confidence in his own endurance._

> A last note from a hopeful position. I think it's going to be all right. We have a fine party going forward and arrangements are all going well.

Scott wrote home optimistically about the expedition's prospects.

_Highlights Scott's optimism before the return journey's hardships._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_worst_journey_in_the_world_se/chapters/iii-the-plateau-from-mount-darwin-to-lat-87-2-s
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_worst_journey_in_the_world_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_worst_journey_in_the_world_se/chapters