The North Pole: the history of an obsession - Erling Kagge

Wild imaginings, broken hearts, melting ice, and life dreams achieved at 50 degrees below. The legends, motivations, physical challenges and the nature of exploration at large.

Throughout recorded human time, few places on Earth have inspired as much fascination as the North Pole. This is an otherworldly place where the sun rises and stays aloft for six whole months before setting, plunging the expanse of ice and water into darkness for half a year. The race to be the first to the North Pole lasted for 400 years, and still, to this day, no one knows for sure who got there first.

"With Erling Kagge alive and active, I have the satisfaction of knowing that I am not the only mad man alive at present. He is also, never mind his icy achievements, a brilliant author." - Sir Ranulph Fiennes.

About the speaker

Erling Kagge is a Norwegian Polar Explorer, Mountaineer, Philosopher and Writer. Kagge was the first to reach the North Pole, South Pole and summit of Everest on foot, the first to walk alone and unsupported to the South Pole, and the first together with Børge Ousland to walk unsupported to the North Pole.

Kagge has sailed across the Atlantic, to Antarctica and back and crossed New York City alpine style, with Steve Duncan, through its sewage, train, water and metro tunnels. Kagge has written nine books and his latest is THE NORTH POLE - A History of an Obsession.

Booking information

Monday night lectures are open to Fellows and Members and are included in the cost of membership.

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About Monday night lectures

Our Monday night lectures are exclusive to Fellows and Members and are included in the cost of membership. Members can book to attend the lectures in-person at the Society, or enjoy them live from the comfort of your own home.

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• Step-free access to the event
• Accessible toilets
• Assistance dogs are welcome
• Hearing loop

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