Description
This collection consists mainly of
manuscripts, correspondence, drawings, and printed material related to the work of British
explorer and writer Richard Francis Burton (1821-1890) and his interests in swords, fencing,
and Middle Eastern poetry and history. The collection contains research material and early
drafts of Burton's The Book of the Sword and To the Gold Coast.
Background
Richard Francis Burton (1821-1890) was a British explorer, linguist, writer, diplomat and
translator; he explored Africa, the Middle East, South America and Iceland, and translated,
among many other titles, The Arabian Nights. Burton married
Isabel Arundell (1831-1896), in 1861, and she, thereafter, accompanied Burton on many of his
travels, and became his amanuensis and editor, as well as publishing her own travel volumes
and an autobiography. Burton died of a heart attack on October 19, 1890, and Isabel Burton
died from complications of ovarian cancer on March 22, 1896.
Extent
12.86 Linear Feet
(14 boxes)
Restrictions
The Huntington Library does not require that researchers request permission to quote from
or publish images of this material, nor does it charge fees for such activities. The
responsibility for identifying the copyright holder, if there is one, and obtaining
necessary permissions rests with the researcher.
Availability
Open to qualified researchers by prior application through the Reader Services Department.
For more information, contact Reader Services.