Henry Rider Haggard

A finales del siglo XIX, Haggard colocó en las tierras de África, en parte inexploradas, a Allan Quatermain, el cazador de elefantes, enrolado en un viaje erizado de dificultades en busca de las portentosas minas del rey Salomon. Una sucesion de peligros, ocasionados por la naturaleza, las fieras o los nativos -que no entienden la idolatria de los blancos por las piedras- se interpondra en su camino. De todo esto surge una pregunta esencial: si la "civilizacion" materialista y obsesionada por el dinero no sera en el fondo mas salvaje que esta tribus belicosas perdidas en el corazon de la selva.

Considerada la primera gran novela de aventuras sobre Çfrica, "Las minas del rey Salomón" se convirtió enseguida en un bestseller que superó todas las previsiones. Por primera vez, el heroe sufre los achaques de la edad supera los cincuenta años, que en su epoca lo acercaba a la vejez, tiene mala dentadura, no se fia del todo en su punteria e intenta quedarse tras la primera linea de combate, algo que contribuye a su longevidad, poco frecuente en una profesion de tanto riesgo como la suya. Mezcla de accion y de misterio, por sus paginas se suceden escenas que poco tiempo despues serian habituales en la saga de Indiana Jones, muchas de ellas con un componente esoterico perturbador. Jose Maria Gallego ilustra a color uno de los grandes clasicos de aventuras en una nueva traduccion de Susana Carral realizada expresamente para esta edicion.

EL DIOS AMARILLO

Las minas del rey Salomón (1885) fue la primera novela de aventuras ambientada en África en inglés. Con ella, Henry Rider Haggard creó a su personaje predilecto, el cazador Allan Quatermain, un hombre de accion cuyas relaciones con los nativos oscilan entre la mano dura y el paternalismo, entre el desprecio y la admiracion. Aunque redactada en una prosa sencilla y concisa - al autor solo le llevo algo mas de un mes-, la historia resulta tan extraordinaria, segun su propio protagonista, que no necesita del adorno de las bellas palabras. El novelista, administrador colonial e ingeniero agronomo Henry Rider Haggard (1856-1925) viajo por primera vez a Africa cuando solo tenia 19 años. Gracias a ello, Haggard recorrio el territorio y entro en contacto con las costumbres de las diversas tribus africanas. El conocimiento de este novedoso mundo le sirvio para nutrir de material su obra literaria, pero tambien para presentar de forma amena las vidas de hombres extraordinarios y poner al alcance de todos los principales incidentes de la historia de Africa desde una perspectiva diferente a la europea y civilizada.

The book was first printed in 1889.The story is set in the Ptolemaic era of Ancient Egyptian history and revolves around the survival of a dynasty bloodline protected by the Priesthood of Isis. The main character Harmachis (the living descendant of the pharaohs bloodline) is charged by the Priesthood to overthrow the supposed impostor Cleopatra, drive out the Greeks and Romans and restore Egypt to its golden era.

H. Rider Haggard - Ultimate Collection: 60+ Works in One Volume presents a comprehensive anthology of Haggards prolific contributions to the adventure and fantasy genres, encapsulating his signature blend of exotic settings, colonial themes, and larger-than-life characters. Spanning novels, short stories, and essays, this collection showcases Haggards vivid prose style, rich imagery, and imaginative narratives that often reflect Victorian sensibilities and the eras fascination with exploration and empire. Readers will encounter legendary works such as "King Solomons Mines" and "She," which not only entertain but also serve as a lens through which to examine colonial ideology and the interplay of civilization and savagery. Haggard, an English writer born in 1856, embarked on a path influenced by his early experiences in South Africa, where he worked as a farmer and a land surveyor. These experiences ignited his passion for storytelling, infusing his writings with authentic depictions of African landscapes and cultures. His unique perspective as an outsider contributing to the prevailing discourse of his time adds depth to his exploration of themes like adventure, mystery, and the supernatural, making his work resonate with readers then and now. For readers seeking to delve into the adventurous realms of imagination and historical narrative, this ultimate collection is an essential addition to any literary library. Haggards captivating storytelling and engaging prose invite exploration, making this compendium a treasure trove for both scholars and casual readers alike. Experience the wonder of Haggards world, where adventure beckons at every turn.

The Ultimate H. Rider Haggard Collection assembles an impressive array of HaggardAos most celebrated works, emblematic of the late Victorian adventure genre. It encompasses novels like "King Solomons Mines" and "She", showcasing his vivid storytelling, rich descriptions, and explorations of imperialist themes. Haggards prose, characterized by its dramatic flair and intricate narrative structures, invites readers into fantastical realms where adventure and the unknown tempt the boundaries of civilization. The collection serves as a valuable resource for understanding the socio-political anxieties of the late 19th century, reflecting colonial attitudes and the fascination with ancient myths and exotic cultures. Henry Rider Haggard, a contemporary of authors such as Rudyard Kipling, was profoundly influenced by his experiences in Africa, which informed his portrayal of adventure and exploration. Born in 1856 in Norfolk, England, Haggard was a pioneer of the genre now known as "lost world" fiction. His travels and fascination with folklore motivated him to weave tales that balance fantastical elements with the realities of the colonial experience, establishing him as a seminal figure in adventure literature. This collection is an essential read for enthusiasts of classic literature and adventure fiction. It invites not only thrilling escapades but also deep reflections on morality, civilization, and the human condition. Haggards works resonate with timeless themes, making the collection a significant contribution to the canon of English literature and a must-have for both literary scholars and casual readers alike.

In King Solomons Mines, Henry Rider Haggard weaves an enthralling narrative set in the heart of Africa, where the quest for lost treasure unfolds amidst vivid landscapes and perilous adventures. The book, a landmark of adventure fiction published in 1885, intricately combines thrilling escapades with a rich tapestry of colonial discourse. Haggards prose, marked by its lush descriptions and an evocative sense of place, transports readers into the wild depths of Africa, presenting both a romanticized and critical view of imperial aspirations. The novels themes of exploration, loyalty, and the clash of cultures resonate against the backdrop of Victorian anxieties towards colonialism and the unknown. Haggard, a British writer with a background in agriculture and mining, was notably influenced by his experiences in South Africa and Victorian interests in archaeology and discovery. His firsthand observations during the time of British expansionism undoubtedly informed the novels portrayal of indigenous cultures and the ethical quandaries of Western exploration. HaggardAos fascination with adventure stemmed from his own travels and resonated with a readership captivated by tales of exotic locales and daring exploits. King Solomons Mines remains a seminal work that invites readers to grapple with themes of adventure and racial dynamics, making it essential for both enthusiasts of classic literature and contemporary scholars alike. Haggards pioneering exploration of adventure fiction makes this novel not only a thrilling escapade but also a profound commentary on the periods cultural landscapes.

The "Complete Works of Henry Rider Haggard" compiles over seventy literary pieces, showcasing the extraordinary range of Haggards creativity. This compendium includes beloved adventure novels such as the Allan Quatermain series and the Ayesha series, alongside his captivating Lost World novels, revealing a unique blend of exploration, fantasy, and historical narrative. Haggards prose is steeped in vivid imagery and rich detail, often illustrating the conflicts between civilization and the untamed wilderness. The book is critical within the context of late 19th-century literature, reflecting the Victorian fascination with exploration and colonialism while foreshadowing modern themes of existential inquiry and adventure narratives. Haggard, a key figure in adventure literature, drew from his own experiences in South Africa, where he worked as a land surveyor and lived among indigenous peoples. These rich experiences undoubtedly informed his storytelling, allowing him to create intricate worlds that merge personal history with mythical elements. His works not only entertain but critique the imperialistic ethos of his time, demonstrating the complex interplay of power and morality. This compilation is a must-read for enthusiasts of classic literature and adventure tales, providing an exhaustive insight into Haggards imaginative worlds. For scholars and fans alike, this volume serves as an essential gateway into the mind of a pioneering author whose narratives continue to resonate with contemporary themes of exploration, identity, and cultural encounter.In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience:- A comprehensive Introduction outlines these selected works unifying features, themes, or stylistic evolutions.- The Author Biography highlights personal milestones and literary influences that shape the entire body of writing.- A Historical Context section situates the works in their broader erasocial currents, cultural trends, and key events that underpin their creation.- A concise Synopsis (Selection) offers an accessible overview of the included texts, helping readers navigate plotlines and main ideas without revealing critical twists.- A unified Analysis examines recurring motifs and stylistic hallmarks across the collection, tying the stories together while spotlighting the different works strengths.- Reflection questions inspire deeper contemplation of the authors overarching message, inviting readers to draw connections among different texts and relate them to modern contexts.- Lastly, our handpicked Memorable Quotes distill pivotal lines and turning points, serving as touchstones for the collections central themes.

Eric Brighteyes, written by Henry Rider Haggard, is a captivating novel set against the backdrop of Viking Age Iceland, blending elements of adventure, romance, and folklore. Haggards narrative style, imbued with rich, descriptive language and a meticulous attention to historical detail, immerses readers in the stark beauty and turbulent life of medieval Norse society. The plot unfolds around Eric, a young warrior driven by love and honor, as he navigates treachery and conflict in a landscape where gods and men intertwine, showcasing Haggards penchant for exploring themes of valor and the human condition within a mythic framework. Haggard, an influential figure in the genre of adventure fiction, drew inspiration from his fascination with ancient cultures and legends, which undoubtedly shaped his world-building in Eric Brighteyes. His affinity for exploration and the exotic, bolstered by his travels through Africa and his engagement with historical narratives, equipped him with the narrative tools necessary to create a vivid and compelling story that resonates with the ethos of a bygone era. This novel is highly recommended for readers interested in historical fiction that merges adventure with deep-seated themes of loyalty and honor. Haggards work not only provides an exhilarating escape into a vibrant past but also resonates with contemporary concerns about identity and cultural legacy, making it a must-read for both enthusiasts of Viking lore and lovers of timeless storytelling.