Trama e riassunto di Vita di Horatio, Lord Nelson

A chi è rivolto

This book suits readers who love true sea stories, from Arctic ice to the Nile, and who enjoy a hero seen up close, with his letters, flaws and loyalties.

Che cos’è questo libro

What turns a sickly boy from a Norfolk parsonage into a man whose name frightens whole fleets? Robert Southey answers in The Life of Horatio, Lord Nelson, by following the facts. A boy of twelve climbs aboard his uncle's ship and is neglected until someone takes pity on him the next day. Thirty-four years later he lies dying below decks at Trafalgar, still thinking of his duty.

Southey was a poet and man of letters. He wanted a life clear and short enough for a young sailor to learn by heart. You meet a captain who enforces the law against his admiral, an admiral who lifts a telescope to his blind eye, and a man whose love for Lady Hamilton stains his record at Naples.

Questions about Vita di Horatio, Lord Nelson

What is The Life of Horatio, Lord Nelson about?

It follows Nelson from his Norfolk boyhood in 1758 through his early voyages, wounds, victories at Cape St. Vincent, the Nile and Copenhagen, and the pursuit of the French fleet that leads to Trafalgar in 1805.

Why did Robert Southey write his life of Nelson?

Southey says many lives of Nelson exist, but none clear and short enough to serve as a manual for a young sailor. He wants a plain account that can be learned by heart, believing a faithful record of deeds is the best praise.

What was the Nelson touch?

It is Nelson's plan of attack for the last battle, sent to Collingwood. Two lines would break the enemy line and fight at close range, while the captains were trusted to act on their own judgment when signals failed.

Does Southey praise Nelson without criticism?

No. He admires Nelson's courage and care for his men, but he also condemns Nelson's attachment to Lady Hamilton and the handling of the Naples rebels and Admiral Caraccioli, which he calls a stain.

Is the book easy to follow today?

Yes, it moves in time order with short episodes, famous scenes and Nelson's own letters and sayings. A reader can follow each voyage and battle without any naval training, because Southey explains events clearly.