Narrative of a Five Years Expedition Against the Revolted Negroes of Surinam

Rating:
Summary: A sociological, biological, artistic and military tour
Review: Stedman, an English officer in a mercenary force hired to end the depredations of escaped slaves, is an examplar of the 18th century naturalist, complete with botanically or zoologically accurate descriptions and paintings which grace this handsome volume. He was more unusual in his social perspectives, and maintained close friendships with people at literally every level of Surinam society. He had considerable sympathy for those at the bottom, including those he'd been hired to eliminate. This sympathy appears in some grisly images of slave punishment which his contemporary and friend, the poet and artist William Blake, engraved for the Narrative's original publication.

Stedman's graceful writing style, his obvious humanity, his wealth of scientific information, his artistic achievements, his jungle or social adventures, and his modern angst, all contribute to a lengthy and fascinating experience for the reader. Richard Price's introduction ably sets the scene.