Bret Harte

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Bret Harte by Napoleon Sarony, c. 1870, albumen silver print, from the National Portrait Gallery - NPG-NPG 79 39Harte-000001

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Bret Harte (August 25, 1836 – May 5, 1902) was an American short story writer and poet, best known for his short fiction featuring miners, gamblers, and other romantic figures of the California Gold Rush. His tales have been said to capture the speech, manners, and atmosphere of his era with a realism that was ahead of his time. Harte's use of regional dialects and vivid landscapes helped pioneer the local color movement in American literature, influencing generations of writers to come.

Biography

Born in Albany, New York, as Francis Brett Hart, he later adopted the spelling "Bret Harte" for his literary work. Harte's family moved to California during his teenage years, a move that would greatly influence his writing career. After a variety of professions, including teacher, miner, and journalist, Harte found his calling in writing. His first critical success came with the publication of "The Luck of Roaring Camp" in 1868, a story that brought him national attention and set the tone for much of his future work.

Harte's career was marked by his vivid portrayal of the diverse characters of the Gold Rush era. His stories often highlighted the moral dilemmas faced by individuals in the rapidly changing social landscape of California. Despite his popularity, Harte struggled financially and eventually accepted a position as a United States Consul, first in Germany and later in Scotland, where he continued to write until his death in 1902.

Literary Work

Bret Harte's literary output includes short stories, poetry, and essays. His most famous works are set in the California Gold Rush, including collections like "The Luck of Roaring Camp and Other Sketches" (1870) and "Tales of the Argonauts" (1875). Harte's writing is characterized by its use of dialect, detailed descriptions, and exploration of themes such as survival, morality, and justice. His characters, often flawed and complex, reflect the tumultuousness of the era he depicted.

Legacy

Bret Harte's influence on American literature is significant. He is credited with introducing the local color genre, which focuses on the character, dialect, customs, topography, and other features particular to a specific region. This approach influenced many writers, including Mark Twain and William Faulkner, in their depiction of regional life. Harte's work remains a valuable window into the lives and times of the California Gold Rush, offering insights into the human condition through the lens of this pivotal period in American history.

Selected Works

• "The Luck of Roaring Camp" (1868)
• "The Outcasts of Poker Flat" (1869)
• "Tales of the Argonauts" (1875)
• "Gabriel Conroy" (1876)

See Also

• California Gold Rush
• Local color (literature)
• Mark Twain
• American literature