Letters on the Nicobar islands, their natural productions, and the manners, customs, and superstitions of the natives with an account of an attempt made by the Church of the United Brethren, to convert them to Christianity By: Johann Gottfried Haensel
Johann Gottfried Haensel's "Letters on the Nicobar Islands, their natural productions, and the manners, customs, and superstitions of the natives with an account of an attempt made by the Church of the United Brethren, to convert them to Christianity" offers a remarkable firsthand account of a lesser-known archipelago and its indigenous inhabitants. Published in the late 18th century, this captivating collection of letters provides a valuable insight into the untouched Nicobar Islands and the attempts of Christian missionaries to bring their faith to these lands. Haensel's writing transports readers to a world untouched by modern civilization, where nature reigns supreme and the natives live in harmony with their surroundings. Through his eloquent descriptions, vivid imagery, and meticulous observations, the author takes us on a thrilling journey that offers a glimpse into the rich biodiversity and unique ecosystem of the Nicobar Islands. What sets this book apart is Haensel's genuine curiosity and respect for the islanders. He aims to understand their customs, beliefs, and traditions, and presents a comprehensive exploration of their way of life. From their daily routines and social structure to their intricate superstitions and rituals, Haensel leaves no stone unturned. His encounters with the locals are recounted with sensitivity, shedding light on their resilience and strong community bonds. The most captivating aspect of this book lies in Haensel's account of the Church of the United Brethren's efforts to convert the islanders to Christianity. Throughout his letters, he details the challenges faced by the missionaries, their interactions with the natives, and the gradual changes that occur as the islanders wrestle with embracing a foreign faith while trying to preserve their own cultural identity. Haensel's prose, translated into English from the original German, is both engaging and informative. His attention to detail, paired with his ability to navigate complex cultural dynamics, makes for a compelling read. The letters not only provide a study in anthropology but also offer an intimate portrait of an era when European missionaries sought to understand and influence cultures they encountered during their voyages. While the author's perspective is primarily sympathetic towards the missionaries and their evangelistic goals, he remains fair in acknowledging the cultural nuances and challenges faced by the islanders. Haensel brings to life the contradictions and complexities of this historical period, allowing readers to critically assess the missionary efforts while fostering a deeper understanding of cultural encounters. "Letters on the Nicobar Islands" is an essential read for history enthusiasts, anthropologists, and anyone seeking a captivating account of a remote civilization and its encounter with Christianity in the late 18th century. Haensel's meticulous research, coupled with his engaging storytelling, offers readers a window into a forgotten chapter of history and provides a platform for thoughtful reflection on the intersection of religion, culture, and indigenous rights. First Page: LETTERS ON THE NICOBAR ISLANDS, THEIR NATURAL PRODUCTIONS, AND The Manners, Customs, and Superstitions of the NATIVES; With an Account of an Attempt made by THE CHURCH OF THE UNITED BRETHREN, TO CONVERT THEM TO CHRISTIANITY. Addressed by THE REV. JOHN GOTTFRIED HAENSEL, ( The only surviving Missionary ) TO THE REV. C. I. LATROBE. LONDON : PRINTED FOR THE EDITOR, NO. 10, NEVIL'S COURT, FETTER LANE, BY W. McDOWALL, PEMBERTON ROW. AND SOLD BY HATCHARD, 190, PICCADILLY; L. B. SEELEY, 169, FLEET STREET; JOHN LE FEBVRE, CHAPEL PLACE, NEVIL'S COURT; BINNS AND HAZARD, CHEAP STREET, BATH; AND MARTIN KEENE, DUBLIN, 1812. TO William Wilberforce, Esq. M.P. &c. &c. &c. DEAR SIR, Your obliging inquiries concerning the attempt made by the Church of the United Brethren, to establish a mission in the Nicobar Islands, I have not been able hitherto to answer as fully as I wished, the documents in my possession being few and unconnected, and a reference to Crantz's History of the Brethren, p. 504 and 614, furnishing but a short notice of the commencement of that undertaking. The difficulty attending our correspondence with our Brethren on the Continent, has likewise so much increased, that I cannot expect to be soon supplied with more detailed accounts from our archives; and the continuation of Crantz's History, in which a concise report of the progress of the mission is inserted, is not translated into English... Continue reading book >>

Letters on the Nicobar islands, their natural productions, and the manners, customs, and superstitions of the natives with an account of an attempt made by the Church of the United Brethren, to convert them to Christianity By: Johann Gottfried Haensel

Johann Gottfried Haensel's "Letters on the Nicobar Islands, their natural productions, and the manners, customs, and superstitions of the natives with an account of an attempt made by the Church of the United Brethren, to convert them to Christianity" offers a remarkable firsthand account of a lesser-known archipelago and its indigenous inhabitants. Published in the late 18th century, this captivating collection of letters provides a valuable insight into the untouched Nicobar Islands and the attempts of Christian missionaries to bring their faith to these lands.

Haensel's writing transports readers to a world untouched by modern civilization, where nature reigns supreme and the natives live in harmony with their surroundings. Through his eloquent descriptions, vivid imagery, and meticulous observations, the author takes us on a thrilling journey that offers a glimpse into the rich biodiversity and unique ecosystem of the Nicobar Islands.

What sets this book apart is Haensel's genuine curiosity and respect for the islanders. He aims to understand their customs, beliefs, and traditions, and presents a comprehensive exploration of their way of life. From their daily routines and social structure to their intricate superstitions and rituals, Haensel leaves no stone unturned. His encounters with the locals are recounted with sensitivity, shedding light on their resilience and strong community bonds.

The most captivating aspect of this book lies in Haensel's account of the Church of the United Brethren's efforts to convert the islanders to Christianity. Throughout his letters, he details the challenges faced by the missionaries, their interactions with the natives, and the gradual changes that occur as the islanders wrestle with embracing a foreign faith while trying to preserve their own cultural identity.

Haensel's prose, translated into English from the original German, is both engaging and informative. His attention to detail, paired with his ability to navigate complex cultural dynamics, makes for a compelling read. The letters not only provide a study in anthropology but also offer an intimate portrait of an era when European missionaries sought to understand and influence cultures they encountered during their voyages.

While the author's perspective is primarily sympathetic towards the missionaries and their evangelistic goals, he remains fair in acknowledging the cultural nuances and challenges faced by the islanders. Haensel brings to life the contradictions and complexities of this historical period, allowing readers to critically assess the missionary efforts while fostering a deeper understanding of cultural encounters.

"Letters on the Nicobar Islands" is an essential read for history enthusiasts, anthropologists, and anyone seeking a captivating account of a remote civilization and its encounter with Christianity in the late 18th century. Haensel's meticulous research, coupled with his engaging storytelling, offers readers a window into a forgotten chapter of history and provides a platform for thoughtful reflection on the intersection of religion, culture, and indigenous rights.

First Page:

LETTERS

THE NICOBAR ISLANDS,

THEIR NATURAL PRODUCTIONS,

AND

The Manners, Customs, and Superstitions of the

NATIVES;

With an Account of an Attempt made by

THE CHURCH OF THE UNITED BRETHREN,

TO CONVERT THEM TO

CHRISTIANITY.

Addressed by

THE REV. JOHN GOTTFRIED HAENSEL,

( The only surviving Missionary )

THE REV. C. I. LATROBE.

LONDON :

PRINTED FOR THE EDITOR, NO. 10, NEVIL'S COURT, FETTER LANE, BY W. McDOWALL, PEMBERTON ROW.

AND SOLD BY

HATCHARD, 190, PICCADILLY; L. B. SEELEY, 169, FLEET STREET; JOHN LE FEBVRE, CHAPEL PLACE, NEVIL'S COURT; BINNS AND HAZARD, CHEAP STREET, BATH; AND MARTIN KEENE, DUBLIN,

1812.

William Wilberforce, Esq. M.P.

&c. &c. &c.

DEAR SIR,

Your obliging inquiries concerning the attempt made by the Church of the United Brethren, to establish a mission in the Nicobar Islands, I have not been able hitherto to answer as fully as I wished, the documents in my possession being few and unconnected, and a reference to Crantz's History of the Brethren, p. 504 and 614, furnishing but a short notice of the commencement of that undertaking. The difficulty attending our correspondence with our Brethren on the Continent, has likewise so much increased, that I cannot expect to be soon supplied with more detailed accounts from our archives; and the continuation of Crantz's History, in which a concise report of the progress of the mission is inserted, is not translated into English... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
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Travel

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