The Pourquoi-Pas shipwreck in 1936

One of the most famous shipwrecks off the coast of Iceland occurred in September 1936, when the French research vessel Pourquoi-Pas? was driven ashore at Mýrar during a stormy night. The ship had taken part in numerous Arctic expeditions under the command of the scientist Charcot, a highly respected and admired figure in France. Forty members of the crew lost their lives, including Charcot; only one man survived.
The French people deeply appreciated the extensive efforts made by Icelanders to rescue the crew, and in gratitude, medals and honors were later bestowed in recognition of this assistance.
Numerous accounts emerged in the aftermath of the wreck of the Pourquoi-Pas, as the event was surrounded by intense public attention and strong emotions. In Illugi Jökulsson lecture, however, the emphasis is placed particularly on the rescue operations and on the interactions between the French and the Icelanders in connection with the incident.