Robbery under Arms

· Otbebookpublishing
Ebook
451
Pages
Eligible
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About this ebook

Robbery Under Arms is a bushranger novel by Thomas Alexander Browne, published under his pseudonym Rolf Boldrewood. It is considered a classic of Australian colonial literature, along with Marcus Clarke's convict novel For the Term of his Natural Life (1876), and has inspired numerous adaptations in film, television and theatre. Writing in the first person, the narrator Dick Marston tells the story of his life and loves and his association with the notorious bushranger Captain Starlight, a renegade from a noble English family. Set in the bush and goldfields of Australia in the 1850s, Starlight's gang, with Dick and his brother Jim's help, sets out on a series of escapades that include cattle theft and robbery under arms.

About the author

Rolf Boldrewood, the pen name of Thomas Alexander Browne (1826-1915), was an Australian author whose vivid portrayals of colonial life and pioneering spirit have left an indelible mark on Australian literature. Born in London, Browne emigrated to Australia with his family at a young age, where he would later draw upon his experiences as a squatter, gold commissioner, and police magistrate to infuse his narratives with authenticity and adventure.Boldrewood's literary career began relatively late in life, but his works quickly garnered attention for their dynamic storytelling and rich depictions of the Australian outback. His most famous novel, "Robbery Under Arms," remains a classic, celebrated for its thrilling tale of bushrangers and its exploration of themes such as lawlessness, morality, and redemption.A man of many talents, Boldrewood also contributed to the cultural and social discourse of his time, often reflecting on the rapid changes and challenges facing the young Australian colonies. His writings offer a window into the complexities of colonial society, touching on issues such as justice, class, and the harsh realities of frontier life.Despite his popularity, Boldrewood was not without controversy. His romanticized portrayals of bushrangers and colonial life sometimes drew criticism for glossing over the darker aspects of Australia's history, including the treatment of Indigenous peoples. Nonetheless, his influence on contemporary writers and his role in shaping the Australian literary canon cannot be overstated.Boldrewood's legacy endures, offering modern readers a captivating glimpse into the rugged and often tumultuous world of 19th-century Australia, while also prompting reflection on the narratives that have shaped national identity.

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