Choice Specimens of American Literature, and Literary Reader Being Selections from the Chief American Writers By: Benj. N. Martin
In Benj. N. Martin's anthology, Choice Specimens of American Literature, and Literary Reader Being Selections from the Chief American Writers, readers are treated to a collection of carefully curated literary pieces that encapsulate the essence of American literature. Martin's compilation spans centuries, offering a diverse array of works that showcase the depth and brilliance of American writing. One of the hallmarks of this anthology is the sheer variety it presents. From poems to essays, from short stories to speeches, every genre finds its rightful place within its pages. This allows readers to immerse themselves in a rich tapestry of American writing, exploring different themes, styles, and historical periods. It also gives them an opportunity to encounter lesser-known authors alongside the well-established giants of American literature. Moreover, Martin's astute selection ensures that each showcased piece is unique and striking in its own way. Whether it is the melodic prose of Washington Irving, the transcendental musings of Ralph Waldo Emerson, or the biting social commentary of Mark Twain, every writer leaves an indelible mark, capturing the spirit of their times and leaving readers with much to contemplate. The well-structured organization of the anthology is another commendable aspect. The pieces are presented chronologically, providing readers with a sense of the evolving landscape of American literature over time. This approach allows one to witness the growth and transformation of American writing and gain insights into the historical, cultural, and social contexts that shaped it. Furthermore, Martin provides brief but informative introductions before each selection, offering valuable background information about the authors and their work. These introductions serve as guiding lights, helping readers navigate the historical and contextual intricacies of each piece. They also enrich the reading experience by providing a deeper understanding of the motivations and inspirations behind the works. However, while Martin's anthology is undoubtedly a treasure trove of American literature, there are a few notable omissions. Some well-regarded authors, who have made significant contributions to the American literary canon, are absent from this collection. While the inclusion of other lesser-known authors adds a refreshing element, the absence of key figures may leave readers longing for a more comprehensive representation of American writing. Despite this minor setback, Choice Specimens of American Literature, and Literary Reader Being Selections from the Chief American Writers remains an exceptional anthology that deserves a place on the bookshelves of literature enthusiasts. Martin's discerning curation, coupled with his insightful introductions, creates an engrossing reading experience that transcends time and nationality. This anthology serves as a gateway into the rich tapestry of American literature, demonstrating the enduring power of words to captivate, enlighten, and inspire. First Page: CHOICE SPECIMENS OF AMERICAN LITERATURE, AND LITERARY READER, BEING SELECTIONS FROM THE CHIEF AMERICAN WRITERS, BY PROF. BENJ. N. MARTIN, D.D., L.H.D., PROFESSOR OF THE UNIVERSITY OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK. 1874 PREFACE TO THE SECOND EDITION. The former edition of this work was prepared simply as a supplement to Shaw's "Choice Specimens of English Literature." Though it extended to a larger size than had been anticipated, and was therefore issued in a separate volume, it still proved so straitened in point of space as to be in some important respects defective and inadequate. The decision of the publishers to reprint it in an enlarged form furnishes to the editor a welcome opportunity to correct its deficiencies, and to make several important emendations. When the work of collecting suitable extracts from the great body of our literature was fairly entered upon, it soon became apparent that little aid could be had from the earlier manuals. Besides being in great measure obsolete, they were from the beginning disproportionate, and geographically too local in subject and spirit; both of which may be deemed grave defects. The last twenty years have made great changes in American authorship. Many new names must now be added to the older lists, and many formerly familiar ones must be dropped from them... Continue reading book >>

Choice Specimens of American Literature, and Literary Reader Being Selections from the Chief American Writers By: Benj. N. Martin

In Benj. N. Martin's anthology, Choice Specimens of American Literature, and Literary Reader Being Selections from the Chief American Writers, readers are treated to a collection of carefully curated literary pieces that encapsulate the essence of American literature. Martin's compilation spans centuries, offering a diverse array of works that showcase the depth and brilliance of American writing.

One of the hallmarks of this anthology is the sheer variety it presents. From poems to essays, from short stories to speeches, every genre finds its rightful place within its pages. This allows readers to immerse themselves in a rich tapestry of American writing, exploring different themes, styles, and historical periods. It also gives them an opportunity to encounter lesser-known authors alongside the well-established giants of American literature.

Moreover, Martin's astute selection ensures that each showcased piece is unique and striking in its own way. Whether it is the melodic prose of Washington Irving, the transcendental musings of Ralph Waldo Emerson, or the biting social commentary of Mark Twain, every writer leaves an indelible mark, capturing the spirit of their times and leaving readers with much to contemplate.

The well-structured organization of the anthology is another commendable aspect. The pieces are presented chronologically, providing readers with a sense of the evolving landscape of American literature over time. This approach allows one to witness the growth and transformation of American writing and gain insights into the historical, cultural, and social contexts that shaped it.

Furthermore, Martin provides brief but informative introductions before each selection, offering valuable background information about the authors and their work. These introductions serve as guiding lights, helping readers navigate the historical and contextual intricacies of each piece. They also enrich the reading experience by providing a deeper understanding of the motivations and inspirations behind the works.

However, while Martin's anthology is undoubtedly a treasure trove of American literature, there are a few notable omissions. Some well-regarded authors, who have made significant contributions to the American literary canon, are absent from this collection. While the inclusion of other lesser-known authors adds a refreshing element, the absence of key figures may leave readers longing for a more comprehensive representation of American writing.

Despite this minor setback, Choice Specimens of American Literature, and Literary Reader Being Selections from the Chief American Writers remains an exceptional anthology that deserves a place on the bookshelves of literature enthusiasts. Martin's discerning curation, coupled with his insightful introductions, creates an engrossing reading experience that transcends time and nationality. This anthology serves as a gateway into the rich tapestry of American literature, demonstrating the enduring power of words to captivate, enlighten, and inspire.

First Page:

CHOICE SPECIMENS

AMERICAN LITERATURE,

AND

LITERARY READER,

BEING SELECTIONS FROM THE CHIEF AMERICAN WRITERS,

PROF. BENJ. N. MARTIN, D.D., L.H.D., PROFESSOR OF THE UNIVERSITY OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK. 1874

PREFACE TO THE SECOND EDITION.

The former edition of this work was prepared simply as a supplement to Shaw's "Choice Specimens of English Literature." Though it extended to a larger size than had been anticipated, and was therefore issued in a separate volume, it still proved so straitened in point of space as to be in some important respects defective and inadequate. The decision of the publishers to reprint it in an enlarged form furnishes to the editor a welcome opportunity to correct its deficiencies, and to make several important emendations.

When the work of collecting suitable extracts from the great body of our literature was fairly entered upon, it soon became apparent that little aid could be had from the earlier manuals. Besides being in great measure obsolete, they were from the beginning disproportionate, and geographically too local in subject and spirit; both of which may be deemed grave defects.

The last twenty years have made great changes in American authorship. Many new names must now be added to the older lists, and many formerly familiar ones must be dropped from them... Continue reading book >>

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