Julia Ward Howe, 1819-1910, stands as a monumental anthology that encompasses an array of literary styles and perspectives, shedding light on the life and legacy of one of the most influential figures in American history. Through carefully curated texts, the collection presents a tapestry of narratives that highlight the multifaceted nature of Howe’s contributions to literature, social reform, and women’s rights. This anthology distinguishes itself by not only revisiting Howe’s most celebrated works but also by introducing lesser-known writings that underscore her intellectual depth and commitment to social change. The diversity and significance of the works included provide readers with a comprehensive understanding of Howe’s enduring impact on American culture and literature. The editors, Laura Elizabeth Howe Richards, Florence Howe Hall, and Maud Howe Elliott, each a distinguished writer and thinker in her own right, bring together a compelling collection that resonates with the historical, cultural, and literary movements of the 19th and early 20th centuries. Their collective backgrounds, deeply intertwined with Julia Ward Howe’s legacy, enrich the anthology with personal insights and historical context, offering a unique lens through which to explore Howe’s wide-ranging contributions. Their familial relationship with Howe allows for an intimate exploration of themes such as women’s rights, abolitionism, and literary innovation, positioning the anthology at the intersection of personal narrative and broad societal change. Encouraging readers to delve into ‘Julia Ward Howe, 1819-1910’ is more than an invitation to explore the literary achievements of a single individual; it is a call to engage with a pivotal moment in American history through the eyes of those who lived it. This anthology offers a rare opportunity to navigate the confluence of personal legacy and cultural history, making it an invaluable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in the transformative power of the written word. The collection not only educates but also inspires ongoing dialogue about the role of literature in societal progress, making it a must-read for those committed to understanding the past’s influence on the present and future.
About the author
Laura Elizabeth Howe Richards (1850-1943) was a prolific American author, renowned for her contributions to children’s literature and biographies of notable figures, including her mother, the social activist and poet Julia Ward Howe. Born in Boston, Massachusetts, to Julia Ward Howe and Dr. Samuel Gridley Howe, Laura was immersed in an environment that valued education, reform, and the arts, which were to deeply influence her writing career. Her biography of her mother, ‘Julia Ward Howe, 1819-1910, ‘ stands as a testament to Richards’s literary craftsmanship and biographical acumen, as it intricately details the life and times of one of the 19th century’s most important female figures, known for authoring the ‘Battle Hymn of the Republic’ (Howe et al., 1911). Richards’s literary style is marked by its fluid narrative, warmth, and the ability to convey moral principles subtly yet effectively — traits that garnered her the prestigious John Newbery Medal not once but twice. Beyond her famed biographies, Richards’s literary repertoire includes over 90 works, among them beloved children’s classics like ‘Captain January’ and ‘The Golden Windows.’ Her writings mirror her upbringing, echoing themes of social justice, compassion, and the power of education. Richards remains an enduring figure in American literature, her works continuing to inspire readers with their humanity and grace.