The Antarctic Circle is a geographic boundary located at 66.33 degrees south of the Equator. It marks the most southerly point on Earth where the sun can still be seen above the horizon during the winter solstice. This remote and desolate region has captured the imagination of humanity for centuries and has been a source of inspiration for authors throughout history. The presence of the Antarctic Circle in literature has not only provided a backdrop for some of the most iconic stories, but has also played a crucial role in shaping our understanding of the world and its natural wonders.

The first known work to mention the Antarctic Circle was by the Greek explorer Pytheas in the 4th century BC. He described a mysterious frozen land beyond the known world, which he called “Thule” – a name that has been attributed to several locations, including the Arctic and the Antarctic. This early reference set the tone for the many literary works that followed, portraying the Antarctic as a remote and inaccessible place, shrouded in mystery and intrigue.

One of the most influential works to feature the Antarctic Circle is Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Narrative of Arthur Gordon Pym of Nantucket”, published in 1838. The novel tells the story of a young sailor who becomes shipwrecked in the Southern Ocean and is stranded on a desolate island near the Antarctic Circle. The novel captivated readers with its vivid descriptions of the harsh landscape, the dangers of the sea, and the looming presence of the Antarctic Circle. Despite being a work of fiction, it helped to popularize the idea of the Antarctic as a place of adventure and discovery.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Antarctic became a popular setting for exploration and discovery, and this was reflected in literature. The famous British explorer, Ernest Shackleton, wrote a detailed account of his expedition to the Antarctic Circle in his book “South” (1919). He described the harsh conditions, the incredible landscapes, and the unforgiving nature of the region – all of which were dominant themes in his writing. The book not only sparked public interest in the Antarctic, but also served as a valuable resource for future expeditions.

The Antarctic Circle has also been a prominent feature in works of science fiction, where it is often portrayed as a place of mystery and danger. Jules Verne’s “The Sphinx of the Ice Fields” (1897) is a prime example, in which a group of explorers discover a hidden city beneath the Antarctic ice. This novel, along with others such as H.P. Lovecraft’s “At the Mountains of Madness” (1936), has influenced popular culture’s perception of the Antarctic as a remote and otherworldly place.

One of the most significant literary works featuring the Antarctic Circle is T.S. Eliot’s poem “The Waste Land” (1922). Eliot draws on imagery from the Antarctic to symbolize the desolation and spiritual emptiness of modern society. He also references the early Greek explorer Pytheas, linking the ancient and mysterious Thule with the modern-day Antarctic Circle. Today, this poem is considered a masterpiece of modernist literature and has influenced countless poets and authors.

In the 21st century, the Antarctic Circle continues to be a source of fascination for writers and readers alike. It has been featured in numerous works of fiction, non-fiction, and poetry, including Dan Simmons’ “The Terror” (2007) and Rachel Carson’s “Under the Sea-Wind” (1941). These works not only showcase the powerful and enduring impact of the Antarctic on literature, but also highlight the importance of preserving this fragile and remote region.

In conclusion, the presence of the Antarctic Circle in literature has been a constant theme throughout history, providing a backdrop for stories of adventure, exploration, and discovery. It has captivated readers with its unforgiving landscapes, its potential for discovery, and its ability to evoke a sense of wonder and mystery. As our understanding of the world and its natural wonders continues to evolve, it is certain that the Antarctic Circle will remain a significant feature in literature, inspiring future generations of writers and readers.