Corea or Cho-sen: The Land of the Morning Calm

"Corea or Cho-sen: The Land of the Morning Calm" by Arnold Henry Savage Landor is a travel narrative that transports readers to late 19th-century Corea through the eyes of the author. Landor's writing paints a vivid picture of the land, traditions, and people he encounters during his stay. The journey begins with his Christmas Day voyage from Japan to Corea in 1890, and chronicles his initial impressions of Fusan, a bustling port city, while introducing a cast of characters that includes amused sailors, curious locals, and even a body-snatcher. The book touches on the significance of cotton production to the region's economy, whilst capturing the distinctive essence of Corean existence and illustrating the societal norms and historical background. This section effectively introduces the reader to the diverse culture of Corean society that Landor seeks to document.