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The American Novel

This series offers introductory critical guides to seminal works of American fiction. Each volume features a substantial introduction by a distinguished authority, detailing the work's composition, publication history, and contemporary reception. It is followed by newly commissioned essays and a guide to further reading. The series serves as an invaluable resource for students engaging in critical analysis of major American novels.

New Essays on 'The Portrait of a Lady'
New Essays on Go Down, Moses
New Essays on The Sound and the Fury

Recommended Reading Order

  • Exploring the complexities of race and gender, this collection of essays delves into the themes of Faulkner's work during a tumultuous period in his life. Judith Sensibar examines Faulkner's personal connections, while Judith Wittenberg provides an ecological perspective. John T. Matthews reinterprets the novel as a distinctly "southern" experience, and Minrose Gwin highlights the roles of black women characters. Thadious M. Davis further investigates the intricate dynamics of black and white relationships central to the narrative.

    New Essays on Go Down, Moses
  • Exploring the themes and characters of Henry James's most beloved novel, this collection of essays offers insightful analysis and interpretations that highlight its appeal. Contributors delve into the narrative structure, character development, and the novel's enduring relevance, providing readers with a deeper understanding of James's literary artistry. The essays invite both new readers and long-time fans to appreciate the complexities and nuances of the work in a fresh light.

    New Essays on 'The Portrait of a Lady'