Michael Crichton's The Great Train Robbery
As one begins to read The Great Train Robbery, the writer, Michael Crichton, introduces the reader to an elaborate scheme to gain a large profit that benefits those taking part. The main character and mastermind of the swindle was Edward Pierce: a charming, intelligent, and cunning persona. Once the story begins to develop in front of the reader, it becomes quite easy to envision the motive of Pierce’s actions. Although most would believe that it was all about the money, Pierce was ultimately “a man destined to become so notorious that Queen Victoria herself expressed a desire to meet him” (Crichton 33). Once the story begins to fully develop and it reaches the chapter “A Sharp Business Practice”, Crichton begins to address what a “white-collar
crime” is and the consequences it entails. The act was defined as a crime that “was the least likely to be detected” (Crichton 412), very much unlike the personality of Edward Pierce. If the assumption of the will to be notorious was accurate, then what is a better way to become one of the most daring criminals than robbing a train full of gold? Since the arrogant and prideful man strived to get his name out to the world, Pierce had to create an unbelievable event that society would speak of for decades to come.
crime” is and the consequences it entails. The act was defined as a crime that “was the least likely to be detected” (Crichton 412), very much unlike the personality of Edward Pierce. If the assumption of the will to be notorious was accurate, then what is a better way to become one of the most daring criminals than robbing a train full of gold? Since the arrogant and prideful man strived to get his name out to the world, Pierce had to create an unbelievable event that society would speak of for decades to come.