The Atlantic Monthly, Volume 05, No. 29, March, 1860   By: Various

In Volume 05, No. 29 of The Atlantic Monthly, readers are treated to a variety of compelling and thought-provoking essays, stories, and poems. The diverse range of topics covered in this issue - from politics and social issues to literature and travel - ensures that there is something for everyone to enjoy.

One standout piece is an essay that delves into the complexities of American society and the need for progress and change. The author offers insightful commentary on the challenges facing the nation and calls for unity and a shared sense of purpose to overcome them.

In addition to the engaging essays, this issue also features several captivating short stories and poems. These works transport readers to different times and places, evoking a range of emotions and themes, from love and loss to adventure and discovery.

Overall, Volume 05, No. 29 of The Atlantic Monthly is a captivating and thought-provoking collection that is sure to engage readers of all interests. The talented writers featured in this issue offer unique perspectives and compelling storytelling that will leave a lasting impression.

First Page:

The American character is now generally acknowledged to be the most cosmopolitan of modern times; and a native of this country, all things being equal, is likely to form a less prescriptive idea of other nations than the inhabitants of countries whose neighborhood and history unite to bequeathe and perpetuate certain fixed notions. Before the frequent intercourse now existing between Europe and the United States, we derived our impressions of the French people, as well as of Italian skies, from English literature. The probability was that our earliest association with the Gallic race partook largely of the ridiculous. All the extravagant anecdotes of morbid self love, miserly epicurism, strained courtesy, and frivolous absurdity current used to boast a Frenchman as their hero. It was so in novels, plays, and after dinner stories. Our first personal acquaintance often confirmed this prejudice; for the chance was that the one specimen of the Grand Nation familiar to our childhood proved a poor émigré who gained a precarious livelihood as a dancing master, cook, teacher, or barber, who was profuse of smiles, shrugs, bows, and compliments, prided himself on la belle France , played the fiddle, and took snuff... Continue reading book >>