Straits: Beyond the Myth of Magellan

In his book "Straits," historian Felipe Fernández-Armesto challenges the heroic narrative of Ferdinand Magellan and reveals him as a traitor, tyrant, and failure. He explores the passions and tensions that drove Magellan to adventure and disaster, revealing his true ambitions of exploiting Filipino gold. The book is a finalist for the Duff Cooper Prize 2022 and has been praised for its rigorous scholarship and entertaining writing.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 16 March 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

In the annals of history, the name Ferdinand Magellan has been revered as a hero, celebrated for his audacious feat of circumnavigating the globe. However, the truth behind the legend is far more complex and intriguing. In his meticulously researched book, "Straits," historian Felipe Fernández-Armesto challenges the prevailing narrative and unveils a darker, more nuanced portrait of the explorer. Fernández-Armesto delves deep into Magellan's life, exploring his character, motivations, and the ill-fated voyage that marked his legacy. What emerges is a startling revelation: Magellan did not attempt to circumnavigate the world, as popularly believed. Instead, his true ambitions lay in exploiting Filipino gold. Through a meticulous examination of primary sources and historical records, Fernández-Armesto sheds light on the passions and tensions that drove Magellan to adventure and ultimately led to his downfall. He uncovers the pride that transformed into arrogance, the audacity that became recklessness, the determination that morphed into ruthlessness, the romanticism that gave way to irresponsibility, and the superficial piety that gave rise to irrational exaltation. In "Straits," Fernández-Armesto presents a stranger, darker, and more compelling narrative than the fictional version that has been glorified for centuries. He untangles the myths that made Magellan a hero, revealing him as a complex and flawed individual whose legacy is far more nuanced and complex than previously imagined. This is a must-read for anyone interested in history, adventure, and the human psyche.

Weight: 266g
Dimension: 128 x 199 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526632104