description The Amateur Emigrant Overview
The Amateur Emigrant is a travel narrative by Robert Louis Stevenson based on his 1879 journey from Europe to the United States. It recounts his Atlantic crossing among steerage passengers and observes the conditions, conversations, and social divisions experienced by emigrants in transit. The narrative continues into his rail journey across North America, which is also treated in Across the Plains.
help The Amateur Emigrant FAQ
What is the book "The Amateur Emigrant" about?
It is a travel narrative by Robert Louis Stevenson detailing his 1879 journey from Europe to the United States. It provides a firsthand look at the conditions and social divisions experienced by emigrants traveling in steerage.
Why was "The Amateur Emigrant" controversial when it was written?
The book was heavily criticized by Stevenson's friends and family for its candid and unglamorous depiction of the lower-class steerage passengers. The stark, realistic portrayal was deemed inappropriate for a gentleman writer, delaying its publication.
Was "The Amateur Emigrant" published during Robert Louis Stevenson's lifetime?
Only a portion of the text, titled "The Emigrant Train," was published in magazines during his lifetime. The complete, unedited manuscript was not published as a standalone book until 1895, shortly after his death.
What route did Stevenson take in "The Amateur Emigrant"?
The narrative recounts his Atlantic crossing from Scotland to New York aboard a steamship, followed by a train journey to California. He details his observations of the diverse conversations and conditions among the emigrants making their way westward.
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