About this season
A four-part drama adaptation about the life of polar explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. Based on Shackleton’s own journals. In 1914 Ernest Shackleton chooses to lead a team on their famous journey aboard the Endurance. When the ship is trapped and crushed by pack-ice, Shackleton and five of his men embark on a desperate 800-mile journey from Elephant Island to South Georgia.
Episodes (4)
1. A Merchant Navy Man
Aired 13 April 1983 • 60 min
Part one of a four-part serial dramatising the life of polar explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton.
2. Our Dead Bodies Must Tell the Tale
Aired 20 April 1983 • 60 min
October 1908. McMurdo Sound, Antarctica. Forced by ice conditions to break an agreement with Scott, Shackleton has returned to Ross Island. From the expedition's base at Cape Royds an attempt to reach the South Pole is about to begin. The logistical setback has severely limited their plans.
3. Men Wanted for Hazardous Journey
Aired 27 April 1983 • 60 min
1914. Following the shattering news of Scott's death on his return journey from the South Pole, Shackleton formulates a new challenge on Antarctica. Sailing south in 'Endurance', his expedition will cross the vast continent.
4. Cape Horn - Or South Georgia?
Aired 4 May 1983 • 60 min
December 1916. After the loss of 'Endurance', Shackleton and his 27 men endeavour to cross the frozen Weddell Sea. Land lies 350 miles away, and as they drift helplessly northwards they know that soon the ice will break beneath them.