William Marsden

The History of Sumatra (eBook, ePUB)

Containing An Account Of The Government, Laws, Customs And / Manners Of The Native Inhabitants

• Format: ePub

Produktbeschreibung

William Marsden's "The History of Sumatra" is a groundbreaking work that combines meticulous scholarship with vivid narratives, offering an in-depth exploration of the island's geography, cultures, and historical developments. Written in the late 18th century, Marsden employs a stylistic approach that blends empirical observation with rich, descriptive language, making the text both informative and engaging. The book is situated within the context of European colonial expansion, providing insight into the Dutch and British colonial interactions with the indigenous population of Sumatra, thus illuminating the complexities of early global trade networks and their socio-political ramifications. William Marsden, a British diplomat and linguist, had a profound fascination with Southeast Asia, fueled by his extensive travels and interactions with diverse cultures during his tenure in the region. His dedication to the study of local customs, beliefs, and languages enriched his understanding and appreciation for Sumatra's rich heritage, informing his detailed accounts and analyses. Marsden's extensive knowledge and firsthand experiences allow him to provide a nuanced perspective that is both authentic and enlightening. This book is highly recommended for readers interested in Southeast Asian history, colonial studies, and the intersection of culture and geography. Marsden's text serves not only as an academic resource but also as a captivating narrative that invites readers to journey through the vibrant tapestry of Sumatra's past. It is an essential addition to any library focused on historical inquiry and cross-cultural understanding.

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Produktdetails

• Verlag: DigiCat
• Seitenzahl: 504
• Erscheinungstermin: 21. November 2022
• Englisch
• ISBN-13: 8596547420521
• Artikelnr.: 67142164

Autorenporträt

William Marsden (1754-1836) was a distinguished British orientalist and linguistic scholar, widely recognized for his contributions to the field of Indonesian studies through his seminal work, 'The History of Sumatra,' first published in 1783. Marsden's profound interest in the East began during his tenure with the East India Company, which provided him the opportunity to reside in Sumatra between 1771 and 1779. His residence on the island facilitated a meticulous study of its geography, culture, natural history, and languages, positioning him as an authority on Sumatran affairs. On returning to England, Marsden dedicated his life to scholarship, producing his comprehensive account of the Indonesian island. 'The History of Sumatra' is not only the first detailed description of the island in English but also a remarkable example of early anthropological literature, blending natural and social sciences in a style characterized by thoroughness and keen observation. Marsden's work is acknowledged for its scholarly rigor and enduring relevance. He avoided the eurocentric bias that typified many orientalist writings of his time, emphasizing empirical observation over conjecture. Marsden's legacy encompasses his contributions to the Royal Society, his role in founding the Royal Asiatic Society, and his bequest of a prominent collection of Indonesian manuscripts to the British Museum. His linguistic prowess is further immortalized in his 'Malay-English Dictionary' and 'Grammar of the Malayan Language', which have been essential resources for subsequent generations of linguists and Southeast Asian scholars (Ray, 2004).

Inhaltsangabe

Preface
1. Situation
2. Distinction of inhabitants
3. Villages
4. Agriculture
5. Fruits, flowers, medicinal shrubs and herbs
6. Beasts
7. Vegetable productions of the island considered as articles of commerce
8. Gold, tin, and other metals
9. Languages
10. Comparative state of the Sumatrans in civil society
11. Remarks on, and elucidation of, the various laws and customs
12. Modes of marriage, and customs relative thereto
13. Custom of chewing betel
14. The country of Lampong and its inhabitants
15. Account of the inland country of Korinchi
16. Malayan states
17. Kingdoms of Indrapura, Anak-Sungei, Passamman, Siak
18. Kingdom of Achin
19. History of the kingdom of Achin
20. Brief account of the islands lying off the western coast of Sumatra
Index.