Into The Silence: The Great War, Mallory and the Conquest of Everest by Wade Davis

Description

“Into the Silence: The Great War, Mallory, and the Conquest of Everest” is a non-fiction book written by Canadian anthropologist and author Wade Davis. Published in 2011, the book explores the British expeditions to Mount Everest in the early 1920s and the individuals involved, particularly George Mallory.

The narrative is set against the backdrop of the aftermath of World War I, exploring the impact of the war on the British psyche and the national desire for a grand achievement that could help heal the wounds of the conflict. At the heart of the story is George Mallory, a mountaineer who participated in the Everest expeditions of the 1920s and later vanished on the mountain in 1924, giving rise to the enduring mystery of whether he and his climbing partner, Andrew Irvine, reached the summit.

Wade Davis delves into the historical, cultural, and psychological aspects of the expeditions, providing not only a gripping account of the early attempts to conquer Everest but also a broader reflection on the post-war era and the human spirit’s resilience and ambition.

“Into the Silence” received acclaim for its detailed research, evocative writing, and its ability to weave together the threads of history, exploration, and the human experience. It’s a recommended read for those interested in adventure, mountaineering history, and the impact of World War I on the collective consciousness of a nation.