'Shipwreck' Summary

Shipwreck is a semi-autobiographical poem in three cantos that recounts the wreck of the merchant ship 'Britannia'. The poem, which is recognized for its realistic portrayal of life aboard an 18th century sailing vessel, describes the sinking of the ship off the coast of Greece and the subsequent struggles of the survivors, only three of whom, including the author, made it to shore alive. The poem opens with a description of the ship and its crew, and then goes on to describe the storm that causes the shipwreck. The survivors are then left to fend for themselves in a hostile environment, and the poem follows their attempts to survive and find help. The poem is notable for its detailed and realistic depiction of life at sea, and for its moving portrayal of the human toll of shipwreck. It is also a valuable historical document, as it provides a firsthand account of an 18th century shipwreck and the experiences of those who survived.