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The Landlord at Lion's Head — Volume 1

By William Dean Howells
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About This Book

The narrative centers on a summer hotel beneath a mountain shaped like a sleeping lion, where a rough, charismatic landlord mediates encounters between local rural characters and urban visitors. Episodic scenes trace his manners and moral ambiguities alongside the routines and eccentricities of hotel life, exposing small tensions and amusements born of class and cultural difference. Vivid portraits of townsfolk and guests, moments of domestic pathos, and occasional interludes—such as a seance and local superstitions—combine into a social comedy that examines provincial habits confronting modern urban sensibilities.

About the Author

Howells, William Dean portrait

William Dean Howells

William Dean Howells (1837-1920) was an influential American author and literary critic, often regarded as the "Dean of American Letters." He is best known for his realistic portrayals of American life and society, particularly in the late 19th century. Howells's works often explore themes of social class and morality, reflecting the complexities of contemporary life. His notable novel, "A Hazard of New Fortunes," delves into the challenges faced by individuals in a rapidly changing society. Throughout his career, Howells contributed significantly to the development of realism in American literature, advocating for a more truthful representation of everyday experiences.

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