Their Silver Wedding Journey — Volume 2

Name: Their Silver Wedding Journey — Volume 2
Author: William Dean Howells

By William Dean Howells

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Travel Writing

About This Book

A middle-aged American couple visits a Central European spa town and navigates its promenades, grand hotel life, and concerted display of national types. The narrative mixes vivid scene-painting of the watering-place with close social observation of their acquaintances, notably a young employee, his employer, and the awkward ties between them. Episodes in the rotunda, dining-room, and on the esplanade reveal manners, commerce, and the performative aspects of tourism. The account repeatedly contrasts American self-regard with European variety, offering gentle satire of pride, class distinctions, and the small tensions that travel exposes.

About the Author

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.