Abstract
THE completion of the second year of the Geographical Magazine directs attention to the value of its articles and the excellence of its illustrations, the photogravure and coloured plates in particular reaching a high standard. Among articles in the December issue is one by Dr. R. Zeller on the “Development of Alpinism in Switzerland” which is illustrated by a large number of old prints. In view of the modern vogue of alpinism, which the writer defines as an interest in high mountains and their exploration, it is worth noting that at least until the eighteenth century the Alps repelled travellers. The influence of two writers, von Haller and Rousseau, did much to direct attention to the Alps, but with a few exceptions there was little real mountaineering until Paccard and Balmat climbed Mont Blanc in 1786. Maps did not become available until the nineteenth century, and from the middle of that century onwards accurate maps and guide books were great stimuli to active alpinism, while the twentieth century may be said to have seen its popularization.
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The Geographical Magazine. Nature 138, 1007 (1936). https://doi.org/10.1038/1381007c0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/1381007c0