History of American Literature

Résumé du livre

"Of special importance...Possesses much the same kind and degree of merit as the writer's history of English literature and deserves a similar success. The book has been seven years in making and displays a first hand study of the subject not only in its treatment of individual authors but also in its general perspectives. Every period is supplemented by a short review and a parallel survey of English literature for the same time, with references for further study historical and literary, while the volume is closed by a general appreciation and a supplementary reading list." -The Independent

"Any one who makes an original study of American literature will not be a mere apologist for it. He will marvel at the greatness of the moral lesson, at the fidelity of the presentation of the thought which has molded this nation, and at the peculiar aptness which its great authors have displayed in ministering to the special needs and aspirations of Americans. He will realize that the youth who stops with the indispensable study of English literature is not prepared for American citizenship, because our literature is needed to present the ideals of American life. There may be greater literatures, but none of them can possibly take the place of ours for citizens of this democracy." -Reuben Post Halleck

A worthy companion volume to the author's successful "English Literature." It describes the greatest achievements in American literature from colonial times to the present, placing emphasis not only upon them, but also upon literary movements, the causes of which are thoroughly investigated. Further, the relation of each period of American literature to the corresponding epoch of English literature has been carefully brought out, and each period is illuminated by a brief survey of its history. At the end A Glance Backward emphasizes in brief compass the most important truths taught by American literature.

After each chapter is a summary which helps to fix the period treated in mind by briefly reviewing the most significant achievements. This is followed by extensive historical and literary reference for further study, by a very helpful list of suggested readings, and by questions and suggestions, designed to stimulate the student's interest and enthusiasm, and to lead him to investigate for himself the remarkable literary record of American spirituality, individuality, initiative, and democratic aspiration and accomplishment.

CONTENTS

CHAPTER I COLONIAL LITERATURE

CHAPTER II THE EMERGENCE OF A NATION

CHAPTER III THE NEW YORK GROUP

CHAPTER IV THE NEW ENGLAND GROUP

CHAPTER V SOUTHERN LITERATURE

CHAPTER VI WESTERN LITERATURE

CHAPTER VII THE EASTERN REALISTS A GLANCE BACKWARD

SUPPLEMENTARY LIST OF AUTHORS AND THEIR CHIEF WORKS