Review: King Solomon’s Mines
Author: H. Rider Haggard
This probably is one of the first novels which depict a story of a Lost World exploration concept. This has been a source of many movies by the title of King Solomon’s Mines in various variants.
King Solomon’s Mines is an adventure novel by H. Rider Haggard, first published in 1885. The story follows the journey of Allan Quatermain, a hunter and adventurer, as he searches for the lost mines of King Solomon in Africa.
The story begins in England, where Allan Quatermain is asked by Sir Henry Curtis and his friend, Captain John Good, to lead an expedition to find the lost mines of King Solomon. Actually brother of Henry Curtis had been on that expedition and is gone missing. This expedition is to find his lost brother. According to legend, these mines are filled with vast treasures of gold and diamonds. They are supposed to be around a place called Sheba’s Breasts – mountain peaks located around 500 kilometres southeast of Johannesburg in South Africa.
Quatermain agrees to lead the expedition, and the group sets off for Africa. Along the way, they encounter various obstacles, including treacherous terrain, wild beasts, and hostile native tribes. The concept of eclipse is used to win over the freedom from one of the tribes. (This concept is used in Mahabharat by Ved Vyas when Arjun kills Jayadrath) – here the concept is used to obtain freedom and respect of a tribe when the expedition party is captured. They feign to cover the moon singing Humpty Dumpty in a monotonous voice.
As they journey deeper into the heart of Africa, the group discovers a hidden kingdom, Kukuanaland, ruled by a powerful and wise king, Twala – the one eyed. However, Twala’s rule is threatened by a usurper, Gagool, a wicked and powerful sorceress. You can call her a witch since she knows the witchcraft. A somewhat a sad ending for both, Gagool and the lead lady Foulata, when they actually come to look at King Solomon’s Treasure. However the treasure is sealed by a stone wall and the party manages only with a handful of the treasure.
Quatermain and his companions soon find themselves embroiled in the politics of Kukuanaland, as they must navigate the complexities of the kingdom’s politics and help the rightful king, Ignosi, reclaim his throne.
Throughout their journey, Quatermain and his companions face numerous challenges and dangers, including battles with fierce warriors, encounters with wild beasts, and treacherous mountain passes. The final battle of Kukuanaland is described vividly for any takers for old styled war with swords.
Ultimately, the group succeeds in finding the lost mines of King Solomon, but not without great cost. Along the way, they discover the secrets of the ancient mines and the true nature of the kingdom of Kukuanaland. On their return journey they also find the lost brother of Henry Curtis for which they had travelled to South Africa.
King Solomon’s Mines is a classic adventure novel that combines elements of action, romance, and fantasy. The book has been widely praised for its vivid descriptions of African landscapes and cultures, as well as its memorable characters and thrilling plot and the battle of Kukuanaland.
All in all – a fantastic read for all fantasy readers – go for it.
- Nishahttps://storiesandme.com/author/nisha/
