H. Rider Haggard, born Henry Rider Haggard on June 22, 1856, in Norfolk, England, was a pioneering figure in the adventure and fantasy genres. His early life was marked by a stint in South Africa, where he worked in various administrative roles, experiences that profoundly influenced his writing. Haggard's tales of lost civilizations, exotic landscapes, and heroic quests captivated Victorian and Edwardian readers, cementing his place as a master storyteller.Haggard's most famous creation, the character Allan Quatermain, became an archetype for the adventurer-hero, influencing countless subsequent works, including those by Edgar Rice Burroughs and even modern cinematic heroes like Indiana Jones. His novel "King Solomon's Mines" (1885) is often credited with establishing the "Lost World" literary genre, blending elements of adventure, mystery, and the supernatural.A man of his time, Haggard's works reflect the colonial attitudes prevalent in the British Empire, which has led to modern critiques of his portrayal of indigenous cultures. Despite this, his narratives often reveal a deep respect for the landscapes and peoples he wrote about, showcasing a complexity that invites ongoing discussion.Beyond his literary contributions, Haggard was an advocate for agricultural reform and served on several commissions, reflecting his commitment to social issues. His influence extended beyond literature into the realms of policy and public service, making him a multifaceted figure whose legacy continues to provoke and inspire.Haggard's adventurous spirit, coupled with his ability to weave compelling narratives, ensures his place in literary history as a trailblazer who expanded the horizons of fiction and left an indelible mark on the genre.
Sir Henry Rider Haggard was an English writer of adventure novels set in exotic locations, predominantly Africa, and the creator of the Lost World literary genre. His stories, situated at the lighter end of the scale of Victorian literature, continue to be popular and influential. He was also involved in agricultural reform and improvement in the British Empire. “When the World Shook” is a novel by H. Rider Haggard written in 1919. It deals with the adventures of Bastin, Bickley, and Arbuthnot as they travel to the south sea island of Orofena The story begins as the main character, Humphrey Arbuthnot—a writer of adventure stories—is married to his wife Natalie. Shortly there after she claims that she is going to die soon even after she has been given a clean bill of health from their doctor, Bastin. Right as Natalie dies she tells Arbuthnot that shortly after she dies he'll want to travel somewhere and that is where the two shall meet again. Natalie dies, and shortly there after Arbuthnot has a sudden urge to travel to the Pacific islands. He gets on a ship with two friends, Bickley, a doctor, Bastin, a minister, and Arbuthnot's dog, Tommy. The ship is then taken by a cyclone after all the crew abandons ship save for the three adventurers. When they awake they find themselves shipwrecked on the south sea island of Orofena.(Excerpt from Wikipedia)
