ABSTRACT
This chapter demonstrates many of the instances happen in texts the overall construction of which helps manage or make productive whatever potential they might have to subvert or challenge the discourse of European supremacy. The one text in which the disruptions of encounter exceed its capacity to manage, however, is arguably the least examined of all the major accounts of early English settlements in North America: Ralph Lane's. In contrast to Lane's rough, often confusing chronicle of the first colony, the writings of Barlowe and Harriot appear relatively coherent, often driven by easily recognizable discursive logics. England envied Spain's experience in the Americas. The rivalry with Spain had a profound effect on events at Roanoke. The colony's location and much of its purpose was defined by a consideration of Spanish power. As a veteran of Elizabeth's army in Ireland, Lane's practical military experience complemented the theoretical knowledge of the colony's scientific advisor, Harriot.
