The Captain of the Polestar and Other Tales

by Arthur Conan Doyle

Overview

Arthur Conan Doyle's anthology "The Captain of the Polestar and Other Tales" takes readers on a captivating journey through the mystifying and often harsh realities of the 19th century. The titular story, "The Captain of the Polestar," sets the stage with an intense narrative of a whaling crew trapped in the icy Arctic, under the enigmatic leadership of Captain Craigie. As whispers of ghosts and the threat of starvation loom, the crew's fears and superstitions create a tense atmosphere of suspense and dread. In this collection, Doyle masterfully blends elements of isolation, madness, and the supernatural, exploring the depths of human endurance and psychological complexity. Each tale delves into different aspects of human nature, providing a glimpse into the social life and customs of 19th-century Great Britain. With themes of adventure, mystery, and the human condition, this anthology is an enthralling read for those who appreciate stories set on the edge of civilization and sanity. Through rich storytelling, Doyle brings to life the perilous seafaring world and the intricate dynamics of its characters. "The Captain of the Polestar and Other Tales" is not just a collection of short stories but a profound exploration of the era's social fabric, making it an essential read for fans of historical fiction and English short stories. Whether you're drawn to tales of the supernatural or the stark realities of human survival, this anthology offers a deep dive into the captivating and chilling narratives only Doyle can craft.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9783956760815
Publisher:	Otbebookpublishing
Publication date:	12/27/2015
Series:	Classics To Go
Sold by:	Bookwire
Format:	eBook
Pages:	246
File size:	278 KB
Age Range:	18 Years

About the Author

Sir Arthur Ignatius Conan Doyle KStJ DL (22 May 1859 – 7 July 1930) was a British writer best known for his detective fiction featuring the character Sherlock Holmes. Originally a physician, in 1887 he published A Study in Scarlet, the first of four novels and more than fifty short stories about Holmes and Dr. Watson. The Sherlock Holmes stories are generally considered milestones in the field of crime fiction. Doyle was a prolific writer; his non-Sherlockian works include fantasy and science fiction stories about Professor Challenger and humorous stories about the Napoleonic soldier Brigadier Gerard, as well as plays, romances, poetry, non-fiction and historical novels. One of Doyle's early short stories, "J. Habakuk Jephson's Statement", helped to popularise the mystery of the Mary Celeste. (Wikipedia)

Arthur Conan Doyle (1859-1930) is best known as the creator of the iconic detective Sherlock Holmes, a character who has transcended literature to become a cultural phenomenon. Born in Edinburgh, Scotland, Doyle was initially trained as a physician, a profession he practiced sporadically before dedicating himself to writing. His medical background notably influenced his literary work, imbuing his stories with a sense of realism and scientific rigor.Doyle's literary contributions extend beyond the detective genre. He wrote historical novels, science fiction, and adventure stories, showcasing his versatility and imaginative prowess. His Professor Challenger series, starting with "The Lost World," is a pioneering work of science fiction that has inspired countless writers and filmmakers.A man of complex beliefs, Doyle was an ardent supporter of spiritualism, a controversial stance that drew both admiration and criticism. His public advocacy for the paranormal, including his belief in fairies and séances, often put him at odds with the scientific community and even some of his contemporaries, such as magician Harry Houdini.Doyle's influence on contemporary writers is profound. His meticulous plotting and character development set new standards for the mystery genre, influencing authors like Agatha Christie and Raymond Chandler. His revolutionary ideas about forensic science in crime-solving predated many real-world advancements, cementing his legacy as a visionary.In addition to his literary achievements, Doyle was a social reformer, campaigning for justice in several high-profile legal cases. His life and work continue to captivate modern readers, offering a fascinating glimpse into the mind of a man who straddled the worlds of science and the supernatural with equal fervor.

Date of Birth:

May 22, 1859

Date of Death:

July 7, 1930

Place of Birth:

Edinburgh, Scotland

Place of Death:

Crowborough, Sussex, England

Education:

Edinburgh University, B.M., 1881; M.D., 1885