Robbery Under Arms: A Story of Life and Adventure in the Bush and in the Goldfields of Australia

The novel is set in the rugged and untamed Australian outback during the 1850s and 1860s and tells the story of two brothers, Dick and Jim Marston, who become involved in a life of crime. The Marston brothers turn to bushranging, robbing travelers and settlers in the remote bushland areas of New South Wales and Victoria. The narrative is presented as a first-person account by Dick Marston, who serves as the story's protagonist and narrator. Throughout the novel, readers follow the Marston brothers' criminal exploits, their encounters with other bushrangers, their efforts to evade capture by law enforcement, and their complex relationships with fellow outlaws. "Robbery Under Arms" is not merely a tale of crime and adventure; it also explores themes of loyalty, honor, justice, and the harsh realities of life in the Australian bush during the colonial era. The novel provides a vivid portrayal of the Australian landscape and the challenges faced by those who sought to make a living in a harsh and unforgiving environment. Rolf Boldrewood's novel has become an important piece of Australian literature and is often studied for its historical and cultural significance. It captures the spirit of the Australian bush and the fascination with the outlaw figures who roamed its wilderness during the 19th century. The story has also been adapted into various stage and screen productions over the years, further cementing its place in Australian literary and cultural history.