Book: Eskimo Life

Introduction
"Eskimo Life" is a book from 1893 composed by kept in mind Norwegian explorer, scientist, and humanitarian Fridtjof Nansen. Having actually spent time with the Eskimos during his polar expeditions, Nansen documents the lives of the Eskimos and their decision to survive in the harsh environments of the Greenland coast. The book uses readers a distinct insight into the lives and custom-mades of the Eskimos and the polar areas at that time. Through his personal experiences and observations, Nansen offers a detailed account of the Eskimo's daily activities, beliefs, and social structure.

The Eskimo Way of Life
Residing in the severe cold and inhospitable conditions of Greenland, the Eskimos have a distinct lifestyle. Their day-to-day tasks focus on the requirement for warmth, food, and clothing to survive. They rely heavily on fishing and searching, as well as collecting edible plants and roots. Nansen explains the ability and artistry of the Eskimo hunters, who use kayaks and harpoons to hunt seals, whales, and walrus. In addition, reindeer and polar bears are hunted as a source of food and material for warm clothes.

Eskimo houses, known as igloos, are made from blocks of snow to offer insulation against the harsh cold. The interiors are provided with fur and hides for added warmth, and little holes for ventilation. During warmer months, Eskimos live in camping tents made of animal skins. Nansen provides a remarkable account of how your houses are developed and the tools utilized in their building and construction.

Eskimo Clothing
Proper clothing is essential for survival in the harsh Arctic environment, and Eskimos have actually established an elaborate way of making and using garments to safeguard themselves from the cold. Nansen describes the clothes worn by the Eskimos, that includes parkas made from caribou skins and other warm products. Their footwear, crafted from walrus or seal skins, is waterproof and insulated. The hooded parkas that the Eskimos wear are developed for maximum protection from the components and to maintain temperature.

Social and Family Life
Nansen's book offers an introduction of Eskimo social structure, family life, and customs. The Eskimos have a common way of living, with families living near to one another in a settlement. They share food and other resources and interact on hunting expeditions. Nansen explains the marital relationship, childbirth, and child-rearing customs of the Eskimos too, offering insight into their family structure and practices.

Eskimos also have an abundant culture and tradition of storytelling, music, and dancing. They use tunes and dances to state stories, give narrative history, and provide home entertainment. Their traditional drums are made from animal skin stretched over wood frames, and the beat of the drum is accompanied by balanced chanting and dancing.

Religious Beliefs
The Eskimos believe in a range of spirits, which they think to be present in nature and control their fortunes. Angakoks, or shamans, are considered intermediaries between the spirit world and the human world, and they are thought to have the ability to communicate with spirits. Nansen delves into the role these shamans play in the neighborhood, providing healing and assistance in times of need.

Conclusion
"Eskimo Life" is a remarkable account of the lives of the Eskimos in the late 19th century. Fridtjof Nansen's firsthand observations are important for understanding the unique culture and way of life of these remarkable people adjusted to endure in some of the harshest conditions in the world. Their durability, common spirit, and abundant cultural traditions are motivating, and Nansen's book is a compelling read for those thinking about the history and anthropology of the Arctic region.