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Sea-Wolves of the Mediterranean   By:

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Set in the vast and treacherous Mediterranean Sea, this intriguing historical account takes readers on a thrilling journey through the exploits of the formidable pirates that roamed its waters. With extensive research and vivid storytelling, the author, E. Hamilton Currey, offers an unforgettable portrayal of these "Sea-Wolves" who once terrorized the region.

Currey masterfully delves into the complex world of piracy, presenting a detailed analysis of its origins, methods, and consequences on society. By weaving together anecdotes, eyewitness accounts, and historical records, he constructs a comprehensive narrative that captivates and educates readers simultaneously.

What sets this book apart is the author's meticulous attention to detail. Currey paints a vivid picture of the Mediterranean, describing the varying landscapes, bustling ports, and unsuspecting vessels that attracted pirates like moths to a flame. The meticulous descriptions transport readers back in time, immersing them in an era of maritime lawlessness and adventure.

The characters of the Sea-Wolves themselves are rendered with immense depth. From the dreaded Barbarossa brothers, Khayr ad-Din and Aruj, to the notorious English pirate John Ward, each individual is presented as a multi-dimensional figure driven by their own ambitions and circumstances. Currey masterfully humanizes these men, augmenting their historical significance with personal anecdotes, motivations, and moral dilemmas. This approach grants readers a nuanced understanding of the pirate's lives beyond mere myth and legend.

Moreover, Currey's use of language adds an element of allure to the book. His prose reflects both the daunting nature of the sea and the audacity of those who traversed it. At times poetic, at others raw, Currey's writing echoes the romanticism and danger that resonate with the subject matter.

While primarily focused on the Mediterranean, the book also extends its scope to explore the impact of piracy on global politics and trade. The constant skirmishes between navies, the alliances made and broken, and the influence piracy had on states' economic interests are all meticulously dissected. By taking this broader perspective, Currey successfully highlights the significance of piracy as a geopolitical force during this period.

Though at times dense with historical information, Sea-Wolves of the Mediterranean remains accessible and engaging throughout. It serves as both an entertaining maritime adventure and an academic study of piracy, bridging the gap between casual readers and scholars alike. The comprehensive bibliography and extensive collection of primary sources further enhance the book's value as a reference for those interested in the subject matter.

Ultimately, Sea-Wolves of the Mediterranean stands as a well-researched, captivating, and enlightening account of the fascinating world of piracy. E. Hamilton Currey's commitment to historical accuracy, combined with his compelling narrative style, make this book an essential addition to any enthusiast's collection.

First Page:

SEA WOLVES OF THE MEDITERRANEAN

[Illustration: KHEYR ED DIN BARBAROSSA CORSAIR, ADMIRAL, AND KING.]

SEA WOLVES OF THE MEDITERRANEAN

THE GRAND PERIOD OF THE MOSLEM CORSAIRS

BY COMMANDER E. HAMILTON CURREY, R.N.

WITH PORTRAITS AND ILLUSTRATIONS

"Ships be but boards, sailors but men: There be land rats and water rats, land thieves and water thieves, I mean pirates."

Merchant of Venice .

LONDON

JOHN MURRAY, ALBEMARLE STREET, W

1910

TO THAT GRACIOUS LADY TO WHOSE COUNSEL AND ENCOURAGEMENT I OWE SO MUCH MORE THAN ANY ONE SAVE I CAN IMAGINE...

TO MY WIFE

I DEDICATE THIS BOOK

PREFACE

When the ship is ready for launching there comes a moment of tense excitement before the dogshores are knocked away and she slides down the ways. In the case of a ship this excitement is shared by many thousands, who have assembled to acclaim the birth of a perfected product of the industry of man; the emotion is shared by all those who are present. It is very different when a book has been completed. The launching has been arranged for and completed by expert hands; she like the ship gathers way and slides forth into an ocean: but, unlike the ship which is certain to float, the waters may close over and engulf her, or perchance she may be towed back to that haven of obscurity from which she emerged, to rust there in silence and neglect... Continue reading book >>




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