Narrative of the Operations of a Detachment in an Expedition to Candy, in the Island of Ceylon

Arthur Johnston's "Narrative of the Operations of a Detachment in an Expedition to Candy, in the Island of Ceylon" stands as a pivotal document in colonial literature, vividly chronicling the British military expedition to Kandy in 1803. Written in an engaging narrative style that combines detailed military accounts with personal observations, Johnston's work captures the complexities of colonial encounters, the vicissitudes of warfare, and the intricate social landscape of Ceylon. The text serves not only as a military report but also as an ethnographic description, providing a nuanced view of the indigenous societies encountered by British forces and reflecting the larger paradigms of imperialism prevalent in the early 19th century. Arthur Johnston was a British Army officer whose experiences in Ceylon deeply informed his perspective on colonial expansion and military strategy. His firsthand involvement in the expedition, alongside his keen eye for detail and understanding of local customs, allowed him to portray both the triumphs and tribulations faced by the detachment. His writings reveal not only a soldier's account but also a representative voice of his time, grappling with the moral and ethical implications of imperial conquest. This book is highly recommended for scholars of colonial history, military studies, and postcolonial literature. Johnston's unique perspective enriches our understanding of the British presence in Ceylon, inviting readers to reflect on the intersections of power, culture, and resistance while engaging with the broader implications of imperial narratives.