Zone of the Marvellous: In Search of the Antipodes

Exploring the imaginative narratives surrounding Australia and New Zealand over five millennia, this volume examines how travelers and writers like Marco Polo and Thomas More shaped Western perceptions of these antipodes. It uncovers the blend of fiction and fact in their tales, revealing the dreams of explorers, map-makers, and charlatans. Additionally, the book provides a deep dive into the Australian character and New Zealand psyche, offering a unique perspective on Western history and its creative interpretations of distant lands.