Ultima Thule

About the book

"Ultima Thule; or, A Summer in Iceland. vol. 1/2" by Sir Richard Francis Burton is a travelogue and exploratory account written in the late 19th century. The work documents Burton's journey to Iceland, aiming to provide readers with an in-depth understanding of the geography, culture, and experiences of the island as seen through the author’s eyes. At the start of the narrative, Burton reflects on the misconceptions held about Iceland by previous travelers, whom he believes have exaggerated the island's dangers and supernatural qualities. He shares his own expectations and hypotheses about Iceland, differentiating between what he perceives as sensational exaggerations and the more mundane reality of the landscape and culture. As he prepares for his exploration, he lays the groundwork for a measured and thoughtful exploration of Iceland, hinting at an investigative approach that contrasts with the romanticized views often expressed by other authors.