The Worst Journey in the World · Chapter
XVIII: The Polar Journey (Continued) explained
This chapter details the harrowing return journey from the South Pole, focusing on the physical and mental deterioration of the Polar Party.
What happens
This chapter details the harrowing return journey from the South Pole, focusing on the physical and mental deterioration of the Polar Party. It describes the death of Edgar Evans, the heroic self-sacrifice of Titus Oates, and the increasingly desperate conditions as they struggle against extreme cold, inadequate rations, and terrible snow surfaces. Scott's diary entries convey their dwindling hopes and the final, fatal push toward One Ton Depot.
Themes in this chapter
Human Endurance and Suffering
The chapter vividly portrays the extreme physical and mental suffering of the Polar Party, from frostbite and starvation to the agony of pulling sledges in terrible conditions.
Heroism and Sacrifice
Oates' deliberate walk into the blizzard is presented as the ultimate act of bravery and self-sacrifice, described as 'the act of a brave man and an English gentleman.'
Tragedy and Futility
The chapter conveys a sense of inevitable tragedy as the party's hopes dwindle despite their efforts, with Scott's diary entries reflecting the futility of their struggle against the elements.
Characters to notice
- Captain Scott
Scott's diary entries form the core of the chapter, recording the party's suffering, the deaths of Evans and Oates, and his own declining hope.
- Titus Oates
Oates is depicted as a brave soul who endured intense suffering without complaint, ultimately walking out into a blizzard to sacrifice himself for his companions.
- Edgar Evans
Evans' collapse and death are discussed; he was the heaviest man and likely suffered most from the inadequate rations, dying a natural death after a period of insensibility.
- Edward A. Wilson
Wilson is noted for his determined cheerfulness and for insisting on carrying geological specimens; his diary is quoted, and he is described as horribly cold during the march.
- Birdie Bowers
Bowers is mentioned as taking first place in condition among the party, and for his determined cheerfulness alongside Wilson.
Key passages
“He said, 'I am just going outside and may be some time.' He went out into the blizzard and we have not seen him since.”
Oates announced he was stepping outside and might be a while, then walked into the blizzard and disappeared.
Scott's diary records Oates' final, sacrificial act.
“We knew that poor Oates was walking to his death, but though we tried to dissuade him, we knew it was the act of a brave man and an English gentleman.”
The party understood Oates was going to die, and despite their attempts to stop him, they recognized his action as courageous and noble.
Scott reflects on the moral weight of Oates' sacrifice.
“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 that they cannot continue hauling the sledge, though they maintain a cheerful exterior, hiding their inner fears.
Scott's diary entry from March 3 captures the party's physical exhaustion and emotional strain.