Magellan

Summary

Stefan Zweig's book «Magellan» tells the story of the life and achievements of the great Portuguese navigator Ferdinand Magellan. Zweig describes his childhood, youth, and service at the court of the Portuguese king, followed by his transition to the service of the Spanish king Charles V. The main focus is on the first circumnavigation of the globe, led by Magellan. Zweig provides a detailed account of the challenges and dangers faced by the expedition: mutinies, hunger, disease, and hostile tribes. Despite Magellan's death in the Philippines, his expedition was successful, proving that the Earth is round and that Asia can be reached by sailing west. The book highlights Magellan's courage, determination, and genius, as well as his contribution to geographical discoveries and world history.