Robert Knox

An Historical Relation of the Island Ceylon in the East Indies (eBook, ePUB)

• Format: ePub

Produktbeschreibung

In "An Historical Relation of the Island Ceylon in the East Indies," Robert Knox meticulously chronicles his experiences during a lengthy captivity in Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) in the 17th century. Combining elements of memoir and travel narrative, Knox employs a vivid and engaging literary style that intertwines personal observations with ethnographic details, offering readers a rich depiction of the island's culture, geography, and political landscape. His account serves not only as a testament to the complexities of colonial encounters but also as an essential historical document shedding light on the socio-political dynamics of the region during a time of European exploration and imperial ambition. Robert Knox, an English sea captain, found himself captured in Ceylon in 1659, which profoundly shaped his worldview and literary output. His intimate engagement with the island's people and customs offers unique insights into the cultural exchanges of the period, as well as an implicit critique of Western perceptions of Eastern societies. Knox's experiences reflect his keen observatory skills and desire to document a world that was both foreign and fascinating to him. This compelling narrative is highly recommended for scholars and enthusiasts of travel literature, colonial history, and anthropology. Knox's detailed observations and captivating prose not only enrich our understanding of Ceylon's past but also invite reflection on the complexities of identity and the interplay between different cultures.

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Produktdetails

• Verlag: Copycat
• Erscheinungstermin: 8. April 2024
• Englisch
• ISBN-13: 9788028361259
• Artikelnr.: 70270548

Autorenporträt

Robert Knox (1641-1720) was an English sea captain in the service of the British East India Company. Knox is best recognized for his authorship of 'An Historical Relation of the Island Ceylon in the East Indies' (1681), a detailed account of his experiences during his nineteen-year captivity on the island of Ceylon, now known as Sri Lanka. After being captured by the king's forces, Knox and his crew were unable to leave the island until their eventual escape in 1679. Knox's work is esteemed for its extensive ethnographic details, comprehensive descriptions of the island's geography, culture, flora, and fauna, as well as for the insights into the political and social organization of the Kandyan kingdom at that time. His descriptions of Ceylonese life and customs were drawn from his unique perspective as both an observer and, in effect, a participant within the cultural milieu of the island. Knox's writing style-methodical, yet interspersed with personal anecdotes-provides a compelling narrative that balances scholarly observations with human interest. An essential resource for historians of South Asia, 'An Historical Relation of the Island Ceylon' stands as a significant work of early English travel literature, contributing to the early European understanding of Asian societies and laying the groundwork for colonial ethnography.