Two Years Before the Mast

Sea Adventure Maritime Memoir 19th-Century Voyage

Richard Henry Dana Jr (Autor)

Buch | Softcover

604 Seiten

2025
BoD - Books on Demand (Verlag)
9782322596584 (ISBN)

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« Two Years Before the Mast » by Richard Henry Dana Jr. is a landmark maritime memoir that immerses readers in an authentic sea adventure of the nineteenth century. At just twenty years old, Dana leaves Harvard and signs on as a common sailor aboard the merchant brig Pilgrim, departing from Boston to the remote coast of California. His account, rich in detail, reveals the harsh realities of life at sea, the perils of sailing the Pacific Ocean, and the daily routines of the crew as they navigate storms, endure hardship, and visit the bustling ports of Monterey, San Diego, and Santa Barbara.

Dana's narrative is more than a tale of adventure; it is a vivid chronicle of a 19th-century voyage that captures the social and economic landscape of California before the Gold Rush. He documents the discipline imposed by captains, the camaraderie among sailors, and the backbreaking labor involved in the hide trade. Through his keen observations, Dana provides rare insight into the lives of both the crew and the coastal communities, describing everything from Spanish missions to the rugged beauty of the coastline.

The memoir stands out for its honesty and clarity, offering a coming-of-age story set against the backdrop of the open sea. Dana's reflections on freedom, dignity, and personal growth resonate with readers seeking both adventure and introspection. With its blend of historical narrative, travel literature, and American classic storytelling, « Two Years Before the Mast » remains an essential read for anyone fascinated by maritime history, seafaring life, and the transformative power of travel.

Richard Henry Dana Jr. was a distinguished American author, lawyer, and traveler, celebrated for his vivid sea adventure narratives and his dedication to social justice. Born in 1815 in Massachusetts, Dana interrupted his Harvard studies due to illness and chose to embark on a 19th-century voyage as a common sailor. This transformative journey became the foundation for his maritime memoir, « Two Years Before the Mast, » a work that set new standards for realism and authenticity in travel literature. Dana's writing is marked by meticulous observation and a deep empathy for the hardships faced by sailors. His account of sailing along the California coast before the Gold Rush provides a unique historical narrative, capturing the landscapes, cultures, and daily struggles of life at sea. The book's enduring appeal lies in its honest portrayal of both adventure and adversity, making it a cornerstone of American classic literature. Beyond his literary achievements, Dana became a prominent lawyer and advocate for the rights of seamen, using his legal expertise to fight for fair treatment and improved working conditions. His legacy extends to the fields of maritime law, abolitionism, and American letters, where his influence continues to inspire readers and reformers alike. Dana's life and work exemplify the spirit of exploration, resilience, and the pursuit of justice.

Erscheinungsdatum	28.09.2025
Sprache	englisch
Maße	148 x 210 mm
Gewicht	712 g
Themenwelt	Literatur ► Klassiker / Moderne Klassiker
	Reisen ► Bildbände
	Reisen ► Reiseberichte ► Nord- / Mittelamerika
	Geisteswissenschaften ► Geschichte
Schlagworte	19th-century voyage • California • Maritime Memoir • Sailing • sea adventure
ISBN-13	9782322596584 / 9782322596584
Zustand	Neuware