The Treasure of the Sierra Madre (1927)

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by B. Traven



Three down-and-out prospectors in 1920s Mexico strike gold and endure many hazards, none more dangerous than human nature itself. 



The mysterious B. Traven writes wonderful descriptions of the beautiful and desolate Mexican landscapes.

 

B. Traven? His true identity is a mystery, but this gentleman is a popular candidate.


This is a world where men are at the mercy of their lust for wealth and power, whether they belong to imperialist and capitalist institutions such as the Church and the government or are merely lowly laborers who aspire to rise in status. 



Greed takes more than one form: it is the poison in a man’s soul that can turn him against his comrades and even himself; it is embodied in controlling organizations that suck the blood from society for the benefit of the elite. 



This is contrasted with the peasants and native peoples, who exhibit common sense and live humble lives. 



When the prospectors have gold to protect, they become suspicious of each other and those who have less than them, representing the seed of oppression.

 


Although this novel is a weighty example of social realism, it is also never anything less than a completely successful adventure story.



"The Treasure of the Sierra Madre" (Slovak)

"The Treasure of the Sierra Madre" (Portuguese)

"The Treasure of the Sierra Madre" (Italian)

"Treasures of the Sierra Madre" (Serbian)

"Treasure of the Sierra Madre" (Slovenian)

"The Treasure of the Sierra Madre" (Greek)

"Gold Treasures" (Turkish)

"The Treasure of the Sierra Madre" (Norwegian)

"Treasure of the Sierra Madre" (Swedish)

"The Treasure of the Sierra Madre" (German)

"The Treasure of the Sierra Madre" (Dutch)

"Treasures of the Sierra Madre" (Russian)

"The Treasure of the Sierra Madre" (Romanian)

"The Treasure of the Sierra Madre" (French)

"Treasure of Sierra Madre" (Estonian)


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