1. The Outcasts of Poker Flat

2. Bret Hart Born 1836 Albany, NY Traveled West in 1854
An observer of the Gold Rush
Worked as a teacher, tutor, clerk, and prospector and eventually, journalism as a typesetter, just like Mark Twain
Eventually helped to launch Mark Twain’s career

3. Bret Harte Early writing Editor of Overland
Wrote 6-8 stories on which his reputation lays
In 1871 was one of the most well-paid writers, headed east to write stories for
The Atlantic Monthly
Unfortunately, was unable to break from his formulaic stories
Moved oversees to act as a consulate

4. Why Study this Author?
Bret Harte is attributed with developing the Western genre
Most of the Western character stereotypes came from him
Capitalized on the nation’s romantic idealism of gold rush days

5. The Outcasts of Poker Flats

6. Characters/ Sterotypes
John Oakhurst: The Gambler
Duchess: The prostitute with a heart of gold
Mother Shipton: The Madame (prostitute) with actual mothering instincts
Uncle Billy: The drunk/thief
Tom Simson/The Innocent: Guileless youth- male
Piney Woods: Innocent female (The Virgin)

7. Style
Setting
“Local Color”
Genre
Comic Relief

8. Appearance and Reality Hypocrisy Change and Transformation
Themes
Appearance and Reality
Hypocrisy
Change and Transformation
Hidden Goodness/ Heroism
Fate and Chance