608. Nelson: Slaughter in Naples (Part 1)

Context:

Discussed as a comprehensive analysis of sources regarding Nelson's actions at Naples, with the conclusion that Nelson committed a crime and was guilty of betraying the prisoners. Published around 2018.

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Mentioned as a novel about a scholar of Nelson who is driven mad by the possibility that Nelson might have behaved poorly at Naples.

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Referenced as the first celebrated biography of Nelson, written by the poet laureate, which despite being very laudatory says the Naples episode is 'a stain on the memory of Nelson and upon the honour of England.'

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Described as a 'titanic Nelson biography, probably the definitive one,' which argues Nelson was in an impossible situation at Naples given his orders to support the king and queen.

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Cited as offering a critical take on Nelson at Naples, arguing this was the one moment Nelson didn't measure up due to his 'naive attachment to the point of sycophancy to the Hamiltons and to Maria Carolina.'

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Referenced as defending Nelson's actions at Naples, arguing the death toll was 'trifling' and that the penalty for a failed rebellion in wartime was well understood.

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Quoted describing Emma Hamilton's composure during the storm fleeing Naples, noting she 'refused to let the experience of being sick defeat her' and tried to comfort panicking courtiers.