Volume 183101

Polynesian researches, during a residence of nearly eight years in the Society and Sandwich Islands / By William Ellis.

  • Ellis, William, 1794-1872.
Date:
1831
Catalogue details

Licence: Public Domain Mark

Credit: Polynesian researches, during a residence of nearly eight years in the Society and Sandwich Islands / By William Ellis. Source: Wellcome Collection.

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    bread-fruit— Quadrupeds--Absence of venomous animals and reptiles—Manner of rearing pigs—Birds of the South Sea Islands—Albatross — Pigeons — Domestic fowls—Number and variety of fish on the coasts, and in the lakes and rivers. CHAP. IV. FROM PAGE 78 TO PAGE L100. Inhabitants of the islands of the Pacific—Oceanic ne- groes—Eastern Polynesians--General account of the South Sea Islanders—Physical character— Expression of countenance—Stature, colour, &c.—Mental capa- city—Ancient division and computation of time—Tahi- tian numerals — Extended calculations —Aptness in receiving instruction—Moral character— Hospitality— Extensive and affecting moral degradation—Its ener- vating influence—Former longevity of the islanders. CHAP. V. FROM PAGE 10] To PAGE 127. Comparative numbers of the inhabitants—Indications and causes of depopulation—Beneficial tendency of Christi- anity—Origin of the inhabitants of the South Sea Islands—Traditions—Legends of Taaroa and Hina— Resemblance to Jewish history—Coincidences in lan- guage, mythology, &c. with the language, &c. of the Hindoos and Malays, Madagasse, and South Americans —Probable source of population—Difficulty of reaching the islands from the west—Account of the different native voyages—Geographical extent over which the Polynesian race and language prevail. CHAP. VI. FROM PAGE 128 TO PAGE 159. Habits of the Islanders—Unsocial in domestic lfe— Humiliating circumstances of the females—Irregular mode of life—Time of taking food—Cleanliness—Fre- quent bathing— Manner of wearing the hair, and remov- ing the beard—Artificial flowers—Native toilet-—Occu- pations—Agriculture—Implements, &c.—Fishing— En- closures—Salmon and other nets—Use of the spear—