مؤلف: Maude L. Radford

Howard Pyle (1853-1911) was an American author, illustrator, and teacher, who left an indelible mark on the landscape of children”s literature. Renowned for his vibrant and imaginative storytelling, Pyle”s contribution to the genre includes a plethora of books that have entertained and educated generations of young readers. Perhaps most famous among his works is “The Story of King Arthur and His Knights, ” which he not only wrote but also illustrated, solidifying his dual talent. This book, sitting comfortably among Pyle”s best-known works, is a rich re-telling of the Arthurian legends, skilfully combining the historical “Truth” with the chivalric “Legend” of King Arthur in a way that redefined the narrative for American audiences. Pyle”s literary style is characterized by its clear, fluent prose, and his engaging way of adapting classic tales for young readers without losing the sophistication of the originals. Often referred to as the father of American illustration, Pyle”s visual and literary artworks were significant for pioneering a distinctly American school of illustration and storytelling. His influence extended through his teaching, with pupils such as N.C. Wyeth going on to become notable illustrators in their own right. Beyond Arthurian tales, Pyle authored “The Merry Adventures of Robin Hood” and a series of books on pirates that also merged fact and fiction, further testament to his mastery in weaving history and mythology into captivating narratives.