The story of the Terra Nova Expedition is epic and so uncannily archetypical, it feels like an adventure novel which has somehow escaped into reality. What really got me hooked on it, though, was the cast of characters. When I heard the radio play I couldn’t believe real people could be that wonderful; the more I learned about them the more wonderful they were. ‘The more you dig, the more gold you find’ was how a researcher friend put it, quite rightly.
It’s fascinating to go through the published journals and archives and see the same tale from everyone’s different point of view – each participant could be a protagonist in their own right – but I cannot do every version of the story so I am sticking mainly to Cherry-Garrard’s account, switching to another P.O.V. when necessary, as he does. Here is a rundown of the most important characters in that version of the story.
Apsley Cherry-Garrard
Despite his Oxford degree and sizable inheritance, what Cherry really needs is a purpose, and to prove his worth on his own terms. He is idealistic, observant, sensitive, and more naive than he realizes. Trapped by his high social status in civilization, on the Terra Nova he enjoys having a minor role in a great endeavour. The application of hard work to scientific advancement appeals to his idealism, and he finds kindred spirits among the specialists and naval officers, especially in the fatherly mentorship of Wilson and cheerful camaraderie of Bowers. As the Expedition knits into a family on the ocean journey, Cherry finds, for the first time, a vocation and a niche in a happy community, and is having the time of his life.
Dr. Edward ‘Bill’ Wilson
On Scott’s first expedition, Wilson was a junior doctor and keen amateur artist. He grew to be Scott’s right-hand man, and on the Terra Nova is Head of Scientific Staff and official Expedition Artist. Spotting a fellow idealist and nature lover, he invited Cherry to be his assistant; together they handle the zoological record. For Wilson, science and faith are two sides of the same coin: his spiritual side is private, but his rock-solid foundation makes him confidant, mediator, and role model to one and all. But he’s no stick in the mud – he joins in the roughhousing and banter with as much gusto as anyone, and is much loved by all who cross his path.
Lt. Henry ‘Birdie’ Bowers
Everlastingly cheerful and energetic, and apparently indestructible, this voyage to the polar regions is the fulfillment of a lifelong dream for Bowers, and his enthusiasm is infectious. His fiery red hair and enormous nose earn him the nickname ‘Birdie.’ This unpretentious exterior holds a heart of finest gold and a genius for organization, so he rapidly becomes one of Capt. Scott’s most valued officers, as well as a friend of everyone on board.
Captain Scott
With the weight of the Expedition on his shoulders, Scott initially comes off as grumpy and remote – certainly in comparison to schoolboy Evans. It is soon evident that he cares very much about those under his command, and his strengths as an experienced and capable commander come to the fore in times of difficulty, so the loyalty of those who served under him on his previous expedition is understood.
Charles Wright
A good-natured cynic from Toronto, Wright is going to Antarctica to further his study of radiation. As a Canadian, he is ribbed for being a Yankee and gets the nickname “Silas” as that's the most American name Birdie can think of. He takes this in (mostly) good humour, and despite his wry comments he's an eager participant in the Terra Nova family.
Lt. Edward ‘Teddy’ Evans
Apparently a bottomless font of bounce and charisma, Lt. Evans is officially Scott's second-in-command and has charge of the ship for its journey down the Atlantic. His task is to turn the motley collection of scientists and sailors into a capable crew, which he does through parlour games and horseplay as much as high-seas seamanship.
Lt. Harry Pennell
Officially the ship's navigator, Pennell is interested in everything, learns quickly, and lends a hand in every capacity. He finds happiness in work, and works all but the four hours a day he cedes to sleep, so being “happy as the day is long” he is very happy indeed.
Dr. E.L. ‘Atch’ Atkinson
The Expedition's chief medical officer, Atch is warm and caring under his nonchalant exterior. When not tending to the crew's physical complaints, he's deep in the guts of Dr. Wilson's latest specimen, hunting for a new species of parasitic worm. Surprisingly, no one shares this enthusiasm.