Book review: In the wake of first contact – The Eliza Fraser Stories

Abstract

Kay Schaffer has played a significant role in opening up scholarly debates on the gcndered nature of the Australian frontier. Via her previous book, Women in the Busti. she profoundly demonstrated the gender dimension of textual representations of the Australian landscape. III the Wake of First Contact admirably extends this contribution. Without any of the trepidation of traditional historical scholars, this book embraces a broad sweep of time and genre. Schaffer has travelled across thc globe in search of her materials; subjects of discussion range from first editions of Fraser's captivity narrative to post-colonial renderings by contemporary Aboriginal artist Fiona Foley. She investigates a range of texts from different eras. including Michael Alexander's history, Sidney Nolan's famous paintings, Patrick White's novel, A Fringe of Leaves. other popular novels, drama and documentary films, and eventually a Noh play