Scott of the Antarctic presented by Keith Smith

In this presentation Keith explores the life and expeditions of Captain Robert Falcon Scott, placing his achievements and ultimate fate within the context of Britain’s imperial age. Born in 1868, Scott grew up when Britain dominated global trade and ruled the largest empire in history. Chosen by the Royal Geographical Society to lead the Discovery Expedition, he helped pioneer Antarctic exploration while balancing the competing demands of scientific research and geographical achievement.

The presentation follows Scott’s Antarctic journeys, from the scientific successes of the Discovery Expedition to his growing rivalry with fellow explorer Ernest Shackleton. It examines the planning of the Terra Nova Expedition, the crucial decisions over transport, depots and logistics, and the challenge posed by the Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen in the race to the South Pole.

The final stages of the expedition are reconstructed in detail, highlighting the severe weather, deteriorating health of the polar party, and the circumstances that led to the deaths of Scott and his companions. Drawing on modern research and contemporary accounts including Scott’s own diaries,  the talk reassesses whether the disaster resulted from poor planning, misfortune, or extraordinary environmental conditions, and considers how Scott’s story became one of the most enduring legends of the Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration.