Nineteenth Century American Literature : Texts, Contexts, Connections

Abstract

This text explores the culture and literature of nineteenth-century America, examining several genres including the early American novel, realist fiction and historical romance, short stories and poetry. It goes on to highlight core debates such as the American landscape, global identity, women’s writing and the city. This is all read in the context of the revolution, independence, civil war and consolidation. Some of the primary texts discussed are: The White Heron, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, The Scarlet Letter, Leaves of Graves, and particular slave narratives. This series provides detailed commentaries and steers the student through key theories and discussions. By linking literature with its historical and scholarly contexts, this book is invaluable for any study of nineteenth-century American literature.