The Last Days of Pekin
Gelesen von Peter Tucker
Pierre Loti
(4,7 Sterne; 5 Bewertungen)
The author was an officer in the French navy. This book is a compilation of his experiences when stationed in China in 1900 during and immediately after the Boxer Rebellion. It contains descriptions of the horrors of war, but more significantly a detailed description of the mysterious civilisation into which the occupying ("barbarian") forces intruded. The story is told with sympathy and admiration despite a degree of colonial chauvinism. (Summary by Peter Tucker) (6 hr 13 min)
Chapters
Bewertungen
Fascinating History
Linda in PNW
(4 Sterne)
Mr. Peter Tucker is so good that I often felt like the actual officer was recounting his journey. The fabulous wealth against the dire poverty was so well depicted. I kept thinking that the 1900 Rebellion was against the wealthy nobles, but that wasn't it. The Boxer Rebellion appeared to be a last chance to rid the country of barbarians. The hatred against all non-Chinese was intense. The author values the history and treasures of the nobles, unlike how he depicts other invading armies. I do wonder if the immense treasure that WAS China has all been destroyed. I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this book.
(5 Sterne)
Well read by a great reader Fascinating history around the Boxer Rebellion - did not realise how many nations were involved! A little arrogant from the French but they were an occupying army.