William Dean Howells’ ‘The Complete Works’ presents a comprehensive compilation of the author’s significant contributions to American literature, showcasing his distinctive literary style characterized by realism and keen social observation. Spanning diverse themes, including morality, domestic life, and class issues, Howells meticulously illustrates the complexities of American society in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This anthology not only captures the narrative richness of his storytelling but also provides vital context into the sociopolitical landscape of his time, making it an essential text for understanding the evolution of American literary traditions. Howells, often hailed as the ‘Father of American Realism, ‘ was profoundly influenced by his experiences as a literary critic, playwright, and editor. His advocacy for realism was a departure from the romanticism prevalent in his era, showcasing his commitment to capturing everyday life with honesty and depth. His associations with contemporaneous authors and thinkers, along with his extensive travel, informed his perspectives on American identity, ultimately shaping his literary voice and thematic choices throughout his career. Readers seeking a nuanced portrayal of American life and culture during a pivotal era will find ‘The Complete Works’ an invaluable resource. Howells’ insightful explorations of human nature and societal issues render this anthology not only a testament to his literary prowess but also an essential study for scholars and general readers alike who wish to delve into the depths of American realism.
Mengenai Pengarang
William Dean Howells (1837–1920) was an eminent American realist author and literary critic, often called ‘The Dean of American Letters’. He served as editor for the Atlantic Monthly and was an influential figure in American literature during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Howells’ work captured the complexities of American life and its social context, using realism as a tool to explore these themes. His landmark work, ‘The Rise of Silas Lapham’ (1885), is a quintessential example of American realist literature, chronicling the eponymous character’s moral and social rise and fall in the business world. Howell’s literary style often engaged with ethical dilemmas faced by individuals in the midst of societal changes. Throughout his prolific career, Howells authored numerous novels, plays, and essays, collected in editions such as ‘The Complete Works of William Dean Howells.’ His influence extended beyond his role as an author, as he supported and befriended fellow writers like Mark Twain and Henry James. Howells’ insistence on realism in literature was instrumental in shaping American writing, prompting readers and writers alike to confront the realities of life as they are, rather than through the romantic or sensationalized lens common to earlier eras.
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