332: King Solomon's Mines

In this episode of "The Rest Is History," Tom and Dominic delve into Henry Rider Haggard's "King Solomon's Mines," exploring its historical context, influence on popular culture, and underlying themes. They discuss Haggard's background as a child of the British Empire, the novel's adventure quest plot set in Africa, and its impact on literature and film, including works like Indiana Jones and Black Panther. The hosts analyze the book's stereotypes, its reflection of Victorian imperial attitudes, and Haggard's personal experiences in Africa. They also examine the book's themes of masculine brotherhood, racial anxieties, and the allure of exploration, as well as the characterization of women. The discussion extends to the historical inspiration behind the novel, including Great Zimbabwe and real-life explorers, and the book's enduring legacy in shaping adventure narratives.