Nostromo · Chapters

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Chapter companions for Nostromo by Joseph Conrad.

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Chapter 1
Epigraph
The epigraph, a quote from Shakespeare, foreshadows the turbulent events and moral storms that will unfold in the novel, suggesting that profound upheaval is necessary to clear a corrupt or oppressive atmosphere.
Chapter 2
Dedication
The author dedicates the novel to John Galsworthy.
Chapter 3
Author's Note
Conrad explains the origins of Nostromo, inspired by a vague anecdote heard in his youth and later confirmed by a sailor's autobiography. He describes his artistic vision for Nostromo as a 'Man of the People,' contrasting him with the aristocratic Antonia Avellanos, and reflects on the creation of the fictional Costaguana and its characters.
Chapter 4
Nostromo
The chapter introduces the setting of Sulaco and the central character Nostromo, a trusted and charismatic Italian expatriate who works as the Capataz de Cargadores. It establishes his reputation for reliability and courage, and hints at the political and social tensions in the region, including the influence of the San Tome silver mine and the looming threat of revolution.
Chapter 5
Part I: The Silver of the Mine
The chapter introduces the setting of Sulaco in the fictional South American country of Costaguana, focusing on the San Tomé silver mine owned by Charles Gould. The mine is central to the region's economy and politics, and the chapter establishes the tensions between foreign interests, local politics, and the characters involved, including the Goulds, Martin Decoud, and the Italian sailor Nostromo.

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Epigraph

Dedication

Author's Note

Nostromo

Part I: The Silver of the Mine