3 Review(s)

The novel is an adventure tale set against the backdrop of the California Gold Rush. It follows the journey of the schooner Excelsior as it sets sail from San Francisco in search of wealth and adventure in the South Pacific. On board are a diverse group of passengers, each with their own motivations and secrets.As the Excelsior travels to various Pacific islands, including Tahiti and Fiji, the novel explores themes of greed, ambition, love, and the clash of cultures. The characters encounter challenges and moral dilemmas as they pursue their individual quests for fortune and happiness."The Crusade of the Excelsior" is known for its vivid descriptions of the South Pacific islands and its portrayal of the complex interactions between the American passengers and the indigenous people they encounter. It reflects Bret Harte's skill in depicting the human drama and moral ambiguity of the frontier and the search for riches.While Bret Harte is perhaps best known for his short stories and poems, "The Crusade of the Excelsior" is a notable work in his oeuvre that showcases his storytelling abilities and his exploration of the human condition during a tumultuous period in American history.