Bücher der Reihe Polynesian Researches during a Residence of Nearly Six Years in the South Sea Islands 2 Volume Set

While in the Society Islands, British missionary William Ellis (1794-1872) keenly observed indigenous Polynesian life and customs that were already shifting under Western influences. Published in 1829, this two-volume collection records his admiration of an inventive and complex culture, alongside his horror at its polytheistic rituals.