Throughout the novel we get to "hear" the author's voice, his commentary on his writing, personal commentary on the main protagonist of his story as well as his somewhat humorous commentary of the society and circumstances of his time.
Beginning the novel, the author wants to make clear that he isn't searching for a way of justifying the dark deeds of the man who is the center of his writing. He only wants to contribute to history with this important material, noting down the life of this remarkable man. Despite a dark story about a criminal, it is an important story to tell for its message as well as it witnessing of its time.
Joaquin Murieta began his life in the States with a hope in his heart and mind guided by knowledge and morality. He didn't start out as the villain he will soon after become. He was made a villain by hatred and injustice from the hand of his fellow men, which he appreciated and looked up to. This admiration only contributed to a stronger hatred, to a more vicious need for revenge after the disappointment.
Murieta didn't immediately go down the path of revenge, even though he immediately felt the hatred because of the color of his skin. What provoked him into becoming "a celebrated Californian bandit" is the most vicious cruelty endured-the killing of his brother and the violation of his beloved. This is the breaking point for Murieta, who will soon become a symbol of revenge, not only personal but revenge for his home country. He is a villain who doesn't shy away from bringing death when he sees necessary, but he is also a hero to his people, bringing justice for them.
The author includes moments when Murieta is merciful, even kind to those whom he doesn't see as threat showing snippets of his old self, but he also mercilessly kills when he deems necessary. Worth mentioning is also the hypocrisy with which he treats other non-Americans, Asians, and the vile killings and derogatory language used in reference to them.
In the end, Murieta is killed the only way this type of man is to be killed-unexpectedly, with a silver bullet. His head is removed and preserved for show and his story is left to be told.
The novel isn't without its flaws, which are to be expected of the time it was written in, but it is an important historic piece of literature that discusses the universal themes of hatred and otherness.
