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Shackleton Character Analysis

Decent Essays

Intro: What characteristics come together to form a great leader? Throughout the novel, Shipwreck at the Bottom of the World, Sir Ernest Shackleton portrayed many key characteristics on his expedition across the Antarctic that demonstrated good leadership. On an expedition that was as dangerous and long as his had been, Shackleton had no other choice than to be a good leader for his crew. Although there were many, three of the most important characteristics that Shackleton contributed to being a good leader were motivation, positivity and optimism, and strategic thinking. Body Paragraph 1. Shackleton was clearly excellent at being a motivational leader toward his crew as well as himself. Someone who is motivational towards others is …show more content…

Not only did Shackleton demonstrate excellent optimism, he also remained calm, as well as very positive throughout his exhibition. A great example from the novel written by Jennifer Armstrong is this passage: On December 31, 1915, Shackleton wrote in his diary: “ The last day of the old year: May the new one bring us good fortune, a safe deliverance from this anxious time, and all good things to those we love so far away” (65) I chose this writing from the novel to demonstrate Shackleton's positivity because not only had his expedition took many unexpected turns during this point of the novel, but he would also have to come up with a completely different plan for his crew, and himself. Importantly, not only was it expected to Shackleton to stay optimistic, it also was important for him to remain positive. Given the fact that the boss had a whole crew depending on him, the media and people across the world waiting and wondering what had happened, and all of their families waiting at home for them to return to, he never revealed his stress. He was an incredible leader. While on his expedition, he demonstrated great optimism because he was still set on his goal. Finishing his expedition was a huge priority for him, no matter what the outcome was. Body Paragraph 3 Someone who demonstrates strategic thinking is someone who has a long-term mindset. Always thinking two

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