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Informationen zum Autor Many people refer to William Dean Howells (1837-1920) as "The Dean of American Letters." He was an American author, literary critic, and editor. Howells, an Ohio native born in Martins Ferry, was a major influence on American writing in the late 19th and early 20th century. During this pivotal time, the United States' shifting social and cultural milieu is reflected in his works. After working as, a journalist for a while, Howells became an editor for a number of well-known literary journals, including the Atlantic Monthly. He was a fervent supporter of literary realism, highlighting the representation of common life and actual people overcoming obstacles in their daily lives. Howells remained dedicated to civic involvement and social transformation throughout his career. As a result of his prolific output, which includes plays, novels, essays, and poetry, he became well-known in the American literary community. In addition to his own literary accomplishments, William Dean Howells' influence may be seen in the way he shaped and promoted the writings of other significant figures in his day. Klappentext The publication in 1882 of this classic book by "The Dean of American Letters" marked his transition from magazine editor and author of some mildly received comedies of manners, to leading American novelist and champion of realism in American literature. The story of Bartley Hubbard, a philandering, dishonest Boston journalist, and Marcia Gaylord, the wife who divorces him, is the first serious treatment of divorce in American literature. Although Howells had considered writing the novel for years, the actual composition of it brought forth another theme besides that of divorce-that of new journalism. Yet these two innovative and powerful themes are no more than vehicles for Howells's real achievement-the perceptive delineation of contemporary American character, conditions in American culture, and the acute dislocations in ethical sensibility that fray the social fabric. Bartley was still free as air; but if he could once make up his mind to settle down in a hole like Equity he could have her by turning his hand. Zusammenfassung The publication in 1882 of this classic book by “The Dean of American Letters” marked his transition from magazine editor and author of some mildly received comedies of manners, to leading American novelist and champion of realism in American literature. The story of Bartley Hubbard, a philandering, dishonest Boston journalist, and Marcia Gaylord, the wife who divorces him, is the first serious treatment of divorce in American literature. Although Howells had considered writing the novel for years, the actual composition of it brought forth another theme besides that of divorce—that of new journalism. Yet these two innovative and powerful themes are no more than vehicles for Howells’s real achievement—the perceptive delineation of contemporary American character, conditions in American culture, and the acute dislocations in ethical sensibility that fray the social fabric. Bartley was still free as air; but if he could once make up his mind to settle down in a hole like Equity he could have her by turning his hand. ...
