For the Term of His Natural Life
Marcus Clarke
Belletristik / Gemischte Anthologien
Beschreibung
"For the Term of His Natural Life" is a novel by Marcus Clarke, published in 1874. It's a classic of Australian literature, often considered one of the greatest works of fiction from the colonial period. The story is set in the brutal environment of the British penal colony of Van Diemen's Land (now Tasmania) in the early 19th century.
The narrative follows the life of Rufus Dawes, a young man who is wrongfully convicted of a crime he didn't commit and sentenced to transportation to Australia. The novel vividly depicts the harsh conditions of the penal colony, including its cruel treatment of convicts, the corruption of the justice system, and the struggles of the characters to survive in such a hostile environment.
Clarke's work offers a scathing critique of the British penal system and explores themes such as injustice, redemption, and the inherent cruelty of human nature. It's noted for its richly detailed portrayal of Australian landscapes and society during the colonial era. The novel has had a lasting impact on Australian literature and remains an important cultural touchstone in the country's literary heritage.
