|
Sculptor A.H. Hodge's memorial to Captain Robert Falcon Scott, hero of the British Antarctic Expedition of 1910-13, was commissioned before the outbreak of WWI but was put on hold for the duration of the conflict. Hodge died in 1918 and his design was completed by others. This very large monument was adorned by allegorical figures representing 'Courage', supported by 'Devotion' and crowned by 'Immortality'. 'Fear', 'Death' and 'Despair' are trampled underfoot. The bronze medallions hold portraits of Scott and his fellow explorers, Oates, Wilson, Bowers and Evans.
The monument seems very Victorian in style, in keeping with Hodges' other public works and unlike the more personal statues by Scott's widow Kathleen, who was herself a notable sculptor and student of Rodin. The unveiling ceremony is a sombre occasion well supported by the Church and Navy, clearly upsetting to the attendees despite coming 13 years after the death of the Polar party.
Bryony Dixon
|
Complete film (0:50)
