Spanish Prisoners of War (from Literature and Life)
William Dean Howells
Nov 2022 · DigiCat
Ebook
108
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About this ebook
In 'Spanish Prisoners of War,' extracted from his larger collection 'Literature and Life,' William Dean Howells presents a poignant slice of history through an intimate examination of the human condition. With deft realism and nuanced prose, Howells transports the reader to a U.S. prison camp in New Hampshire, exploring the lives and tribulations of Cuban prisoners of war. His observations probe the depths of war's impact on individual lives and serve as a somber reflection on the nature of conflict and captivity. The article is embedded within the American realist tradition, showcasing Howells' signature style that meticulously renders everyday experiences into profound commentary on society and its constructs. In his role as a realist novelist, literary critic, and playwright, William Dean Howells earned a reputation for his commitment to social issues and the verisimilitude of his works. 'Spanish Prisoners of War' embodies Howells' enduring fascination with the social dynamics of his time, informed perhaps by the Spanish-American War's cultural significance and his own position as an observer of transformational historical events. His contribution to the literature of the era serves as both documentation and critique, reflecting a personal and national grappling with war's moral ambiguities. This article is recommended for readers interested in American literary realism, historical perspectives on warfare, and the exploration of human suffering and resilience. Howells, through his nuanced and socially aware lens, offers an experience that extends beyond mere historical recounting, prompting a thoughtful examination of war's far-reaching consequences on the psyche. The text is also an essential read for anyone studying the oeuvre of Howells or the broader contours of American literature at the turn of the 20th century, where the lines between narrative and introspection, between conflict and consequence, are so intricately drawn.
About the author
William Dean Howells (1837–1920) was a prominent American realist author and literary critic, known for his commitment to social reform and his insightful depiction of American life in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. He served as the editor of the influential Atlantic Monthly, where he championed the works of writers such as Mark Twain and Henry James. As a critic, Howells advocated for a new realism in fiction, which he practiced in his own literature, characterized by a close attention to character psychology and societal norms. His narrative style often highlighted the everyday struggles of the American middle class, with a particular focus on moral dilemmas and social issues. Howells' writings display his deep social conscience, and this is evident in works such as 'Spanish Prisoners of War' (from 'Literature and Life'), which reflects his views on war and incarceration. Other notable works include 'The Rise of Silas Lapham' and 'A Hazard of New Fortunes', both of which explore themes of ambition, ethics, and the changing face of America. His legacy includes an extensive oeuvre that continues to elicit critical interest for its contribution to the development of American realism and for its prescient social commentary.
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