Nathaniel Hawthorne By: George Edward Woodberry (1855-1930)
In George Edward Woodberry's biography Nathaniel Hawthorne, readers are provided with a comprehensive and engaging account of the life and works of one of America's most influential literary figures. Woodberry delves deep into Hawthorne's personal background and explores the various events and experiences that shaped his writing style and themes. The book not only traces the trajectory of Hawthorne's life but also meticulously examines the social, political, and cultural context of nineteenth-century America, allowing readers to understand the forces that molded him as a writer. Woodberry's research is thorough, and he presents the material in a clear and engaging manner, making it accessible to both scholars and general readers alike. One of the most compelling aspects of Woodberry's biography is his ability to reveal Hawthorne's complex and multi-dimensional character. By drawing from an extensive range of sources, including letters, journals, and personal accounts, Woodberry paints a vivid picture of the author's deep introspection, mysterious nature, and contemplative mindset. This attention to detail ensures that readers not only gain a better understanding of Hawthorne's literary achievements but also gain insights into the man behind the pen. Woodberry also offers a nuanced analysis of Hawthorne's major works, including "The Scarlet Letter" and "The House of the Seven Gables." By untangling the intricate threads of symbolism, allegory, and psychological depth that permeate these novels, Woodberry provides readers with a deeper appreciation for Hawthorne's literary genius. His analysis is illuminating without being overly academic, striking a pleasant balance between scholarly rigor and readability. Moreover, the book explores the reception and critical interpretation of Hawthorne's works during his time and in subsequent years. Woodberry's exploration of how Hawthorne's writing was received not only sheds light on the author's impact during his lifetime but also offers insight into the lasting legacy of his works. If there is any weakness in Woodberry's biography, it is the occasional tendency toward repetitive or tangential storytelling. While this may be off-putting to some readers seeking a more concise narrative, it does not significantly detract from the overall quality of the book. Additionally, at times, the extensive analysis of Hawthorne's works may overwhelm readers unfamiliar with his writing. However, these minor flaws do not undermine the book's value as an essential resource for anyone interested in delving into the life and literature of Nathaniel Hawthorne. In conclusion, George Edward Woodberry's biography Nathaniel Hawthorne is an indispensable work for both enthusiasts of American literature and scholars. By skillfully weaving together meticulous research, insightful analysis, and engaging storytelling, Woodberry expertly captures the essence of Hawthorne as a writer and as a person. This biography stands as a testament to Hawthorne's enduring influence and solidifies Woodberry's reputation as a distinguished literary biographer. First Page: V M Österman, Eric Eldred, Charles Franks and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team NATHANIEL HAWTHORNE BY GEORGE E. WOODBERRY PREFACE The narrative of Hawthorne's life has been partly told in the autobiographical passages of his writings which he himself addressed to his readers from time to time, and in the series of "Note Books," not meant for publication but included in his posthumous works; the remainder is chiefly contained in the family biography, "Nathaniel Hawthorne and his Wife" by his son Julian Hawthorne, "Memories of Hawthorne" by his daughter, Mrs. Rose Hawthorne Lathrop, and "A Study of Hawthorne," by his son in law, George Parsons Lathrop. Collateral material is also to be found abundantly in books of reminiscences by his contemporaries. These are the printed sources of the present biography. The author takes pleasure in expressing his thanks to his publishers for the ample material they have placed at his disposal; and also to Messrs. Harper and Brothers for their permission to make extracts from Horatio Bridge's "Personal Recollections of Nathaniel Hawthorne," and to Samuel T. Pickard, Esq., author of "Hawthorne's First Diary," and to Dr. Moncure D. Conway, author of "Nathaniel Hawthorne" (Appleton's), for a like courtesy. COLUMBIA COLLEGE, April 1, 1902... Continue reading book >>

Nathaniel Hawthorne By: George Edward Woodberry (1855-1930)

In George Edward Woodberry's biography Nathaniel Hawthorne, readers are provided with a comprehensive and engaging account of the life and works of one of America's most influential literary figures. Woodberry delves deep into Hawthorne's personal background and explores the various events and experiences that shaped his writing style and themes.

The book not only traces the trajectory of Hawthorne's life but also meticulously examines the social, political, and cultural context of nineteenth-century America, allowing readers to understand the forces that molded him as a writer. Woodberry's research is thorough, and he presents the material in a clear and engaging manner, making it accessible to both scholars and general readers alike.

One of the most compelling aspects of Woodberry's biography is his ability to reveal Hawthorne's complex and multi-dimensional character. By drawing from an extensive range of sources, including letters, journals, and personal accounts, Woodberry paints a vivid picture of the author's deep introspection, mysterious nature, and contemplative mindset. This attention to detail ensures that readers not only gain a better understanding of Hawthorne's literary achievements but also gain insights into the man behind the pen.

Woodberry also offers a nuanced analysis of Hawthorne's major works, including "The Scarlet Letter" and "The House of the Seven Gables." By untangling the intricate threads of symbolism, allegory, and psychological depth that permeate these novels, Woodberry provides readers with a deeper appreciation for Hawthorne's literary genius. His analysis is illuminating without being overly academic, striking a pleasant balance between scholarly rigor and readability.

Moreover, the book explores the reception and critical interpretation of Hawthorne's works during his time and in subsequent years. Woodberry's exploration of how Hawthorne's writing was received not only sheds light on the author's impact during his lifetime but also offers insight into the lasting legacy of his works.

If there is any weakness in Woodberry's biography, it is the occasional tendency toward repetitive or tangential storytelling. While this may be off-putting to some readers seeking a more concise narrative, it does not significantly detract from the overall quality of the book. Additionally, at times, the extensive analysis of Hawthorne's works may overwhelm readers unfamiliar with his writing. However, these minor flaws do not undermine the book's value as an essential resource for anyone interested in delving into the life and literature of Nathaniel Hawthorne.

In conclusion, George Edward Woodberry's biography Nathaniel Hawthorne is an indispensable work for both enthusiasts of American literature and scholars. By skillfully weaving together meticulous research, insightful analysis, and engaging storytelling, Woodberry expertly captures the essence of Hawthorne as a writer and as a person. This biography stands as a testament to Hawthorne's enduring influence and solidifies Woodberry's reputation as a distinguished literary biographer.

First Page:

V M Österman, Eric Eldred, Charles Franks and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team

NATHANIEL HAWTHORNE

GEORGE E. WOODBERRY

PREFACE

The narrative of Hawthorne's life has been partly told in the autobiographical passages of his writings which he himself addressed to his readers from time to time, and in the series of "Note Books," not meant for publication but included in his posthumous works; the remainder is chiefly contained in the family biography, "Nathaniel Hawthorne and his Wife" by his son Julian Hawthorne, "Memories of Hawthorne" by his daughter, Mrs. Rose Hawthorne Lathrop, and "A Study of Hawthorne," by his son in law, George Parsons Lathrop. Collateral material is also to be found abundantly in books of reminiscences by his contemporaries. These are the printed sources of the present biography.

The author takes pleasure in expressing his thanks to his publishers for the ample material they have placed at his disposal; and also to Messrs. Harper and Brothers for their permission to make extracts from Horatio Bridge's "Personal Recollections of Nathaniel Hawthorne," and to Samuel T. Pickard, Esq., author of "Hawthorne's First Diary," and to Dr. Moncure D. Conway, author of "Nathaniel Hawthorne" (Appleton's), for a like courtesy.

COLUMBIA COLLEGE, April 1, 1902... Continue reading book >>

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Wikipedia – Nathaniel Hawthorne

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