The Worst Journey in the World · Chapter
III: The Plateau from Mount Darwin to Lat. 87° 2′ S. explained
The chapter details the final ascent onto the polar plateau, the organization of the two sledging teams, and the decision to send back the last supporting party.
What happens
The chapter details the final ascent onto the polar plateau, the organization of the two sledging teams, and the decision to send back the last supporting party. It highlights the physical strain on the men, particularly the second team, and the beginning of Edgar Evans' decline. Bowers' diary entries describe the harsh conditions, the relentless southerly wind, and the challenges of man-hauling on the high plateau.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Rising action.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This excerpt marks the dramatic climax because it details the emotional and psychological peak of despair as t…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Human Endurance and Suffering
The men endure extreme cold, altitude, and physical exhaustion while man-hauling heavy sledges across the plateau.
- Leadership and Decision Making
Scott's decision to take five men to the Pole and to send back the supporting party reflects his leadership under uncertainty.
- Contrast Between Ambition and Reality
Scott's hopeful notes contrast with the growing physical deterioration of the team, especially Evans.
Characters to notice
- Captain Scott
Leads the first team, makes the decision to take five men to the Pole, and writes hopeful notes home.
- Birdie Bowers
Keeps a detailed diary of the plateau journey, noting the heavy sledging, the wind, and the effects of altitude.
- Edgar Evans
The first man to show signs of collapse; likely injured his hand while changing sledge runners.
- William Lashly
Part of the second team; his man-hauling feat from Corner Camp to beyond 87° S. is noted as one of the great polar achievements.
- Teddy Evans
Leads the last supporting party that turns back on January 4, 1912.
- Tom Crean
Part of the supporting party that turns back with Teddy Evans and Lashly.
- Titus Oates
Part of Scott's team on the plateau, mentioned as one of the five chosen for the Polar Party.
- Edward A. Wilson
Part of Scott's team, referred to as Dr. Bill in Bowers' diary.
Key passages
“What castles one builds now hopefully that the Pole is ours”
Scott felt optimistic about reaching the South Pole.
Expresses Scott's hopeful anticipation after the supporting party left.
“I am exceedingly fit and can go with the best of them”
Scott considered himself physically capable of continuing to the Pole.
Shows Scott's confidence in his own endurance.
“A last note from a hopeful position. I think it's going to be all right. We have a fine party going forward and arrangements are all going well.”
Scott wrote home optimistically about the expedition's prospects.
Highlights Scott's optimism before the return journey's hardships.
