作者: Ernest Howard Crosby

Ernest Howard Crosby was a distinguished American author and social reformer of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, born on October 4, 1856, and passing on January 3, 1907. His literary contributions are often overshadowed by his political activism and advocacy for peace, but his works, including “Captain Jinks, Hero” (1902), remain significant for their satirical critique of militarism and the absurdity of war. Crosby”s literary style combines wit with a strong moralist position, reflecting his dedication to non-violence and his disillusionment with American imperialism, particularly during the Spanish-American War. Educated at Harvard Law School, he pursued a career in law and diplomacy, serving as Judge of the International Court in Egypt. However, his experiences abroad and exposure to the ideals of Leo Tolstoy propelled him towards social critique through literature. Crosby also penned several works on Tolstoy and nonresistance, but “Captain Jinks, Hero” stands as his most accessible foray into fiction, offering a keen insight into his ideals and the era”s socio-political climate. This novel, now a historical artifact, encapsulates Crosby”s commitment to peace and his subtle mastery of satirical narrative. His life and writings continue to attract scholarly attention for their contributions to American social and literary history.