The Splendid Idle Forties: Stories of Old California by Atherton
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"The Splendid Idle Forties: Stories of Old California" by Gertrude Atherton is a collection of historical narratives set in the vibrant and tumultuous period of mid-19th century California. Through its tales, the work captures the lives of characters navigating the complexities of societal change, cultural clash, and personal ambition in a land on the brink of transformation due to American interests. The opening of the book introduces an electrifying horse race day
in Monterey, depicting a colorful scene filled with excitement and rivalry between Northern Californians and their Southern counterparts. Key figures include Pio Pico, the Governor of the Californias, and Don Vicente de la Vega, a striking guest from Los Angeles whose exotic horses challenge the local favorites. As the narrative unfolds, it hints at the cultural tensions brewing beneath the surface, notably the rising influence of American settlers and the complex social dynamics they disrupt. The beginning sets a compelling stage filled with romance, rivalry, and dreams, foreshadowing the personal and societal conflicts that will resonate throughout this collection. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
The Splendid Idle Forties: Stories of Old California
Note
Reading ease score: 81.8 (6th grade). Easy to read.
Contents
The pearls of Loreto -- The ears of twenty Americans -- The wash-tub mail -- The conquest of Doña Jacoba -- A ramble with Eulogia -- The isle of skulls -- The head of a priest -- La Pérdida -- Lukari's story -- Natalie Ivanhoff: a memory of Fort Ross -- The vengeance of Padre Arroyo -- The bells of San Gabriel -- When the devil was well.
