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The American historical novel (on American themes) before 1860 cover

The American historical novel (on American themes) before 1860

By Ernest Erwin Leisy
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History - AmericanHistory - Modern (1750+)

About This Book

This study analyzes the novelist's early historical romances, arguing he adapted the formulas of Sir Walter Scott to American subjects, shaping patriotic settings and moral conflicts in frontier and naval milieus. It traces his development from imitation of English society novels to experiments with native themes, focusing on his depiction of wartime neutral ground and spycraft, his characterization techniques, and public reception. The essay considers critical responses, declining popularity, and gaps in biographical materials, and situates the works in relation to contemporary critical standards and predecessors, assessing how formal choices and national themes contributed to his contribution to the historical novel.

About the Author

Leisy, Ernest Erwin portrait

Ernest Erwin Leisy

Ernest Erwin Leisy was an American author and scholar known for his contributions to the study of American literature. His notable work, "The American Historical Novel (on American Themes) Before 1860," explores the development of the historical novel in the United States, examining how early American writers engaged with themes of national identity and history. Leisy's insights into the genre provide a valuable perspective on the literary landscape of pre-Civil War America, highlighting the interplay between fiction and historical narrative in shaping cultural understanding.

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