Shadow of a Dream and An Imperative Duty. Dieser Artikel ist nicht verfügbar.Shadow of a Dream and An Imperative Duty

These two nouvelles mark Howells' plunge into psychological realism. Their themes-a triangle of tragic agonies with psychological insights intriguingly proto-Freudian, and a drama of miscegenation-are anything but the "smiling", lightweight topics to which Howells has been supposed to have been confined. The maturity both of their art and of their moral insight lends them an impact much deeper and more permanent than that of the shriller, more merely commercial shocking fiction of our day. Edwin H. Cady's introduction places the books in the context of the development of Howells' life, work, art, thought, and sensibility. He helps the reader make immediate contact with the artistic methods and intentions of the author.

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.