The Worst Journey in the World · Chapter
VI: Farthest South explained
The chapter details the harrowing return journey of Scott's Polar Party from the South Pole, focusing on their physical deterioration, extreme cold, and the deaths of Edgar Evans and Captain Oates.
What happens
The chapter details the harrowing return journey of Scott's Polar Party from the South Pole, focusing on their physical deterioration, extreme cold, and the deaths of Edgar Evans and Captain Oates. It includes Scott's diary entries and letters, culminating in his 'Message to the Public' attributing the disaster to misfortune and severe weather.
Themes in this chapter
Human Endurance and Suffering
The party endures extreme cold, frostbite, and starvation, with Scott noting 'we are in a very tight place indeed' yet maintaining cheer.
Tragedy and Futility
Despite their efforts, the party succumbs to misfortune, with Scott writing 'we have no cause for complaint, but bow to' the inevitable.
Heroism and Sacrifice
Wilson sacrifices himself repeatedly for the sick, and Oates' condition leads to his self-sacrifice, embodying heroic endurance.
Characters to notice
- Captain Scott
Leader of the Polar Party; his diary entries and letters document the party's struggles and his final message.
- Titus Oates
Suffering severe frostbite on his feet, his condition worsens, leading to his eventual sacrifice.
- Edward A. Wilson
Remains cheerful and supportive; noted for sacrificing himself for the sick.
- Birdie Bowers
Determinedly cheerful; provides information on food allowances and supports the party.
- Edgar Evans
Collapses and dies from concussion; his death is a major blow to the party.
Key passages
“Misfortunes rarely come singly. We marched to the [Middle Barrier] depot fairly easily yesterday afternoon, and since that have suffered three distinct blows which have placed us in a bad position.”
Scott notes that bad luck strikes in succession, as they reached the depot easily but then faced oil shortage, Oates' frostbitten feet, and worsening weather.
Scott's diary entry on March 2 highlights the compounding crises.
“God help us, we can’t keep up this pulling, that is certain. Amongst ourselves we are unendingly cheerful, but what each man feels in his heart I can only guess.”
Scott despairs at their inability to maintain the pace, though they outwardly remain cheerful.
From Scott's diary on March 3, showing the contrast between external cheer and internal despair.
“We are in a desperate state, feet frozen, etc. No fuel and a long way from food, but it would do your heart good to be in our tent, to hear our songs and the cheery conversation as to what we will do when we get to Hut Point.”
Despite being near death with frozen feet and no supplies, the party maintains morale by singing and planning for the future.
From Scott's letter, emphasizing their fortitude.