A Modern Instance By: William Dean Howells (1837-1920)
In A Modern Instance, William Dean Howells ingeniously explores the complexities of human relationships and the societal pressures that accompany them. Set against a backdrop of the rapidly changing 19th-century American society, this novel masterfully delves into the moral dilemmas faced by its characters. Howells' vivid portrayal of the main character, Bartley Hubbard, captures the essence of a flawed yet relatable individual. As a young journalist striving for success, Bartley's ambitions often lead him down a treacherous path, testing his loyalty and self-awareness. His dynamic character development allows readers to empathize with his struggles and question their own moral compass. The plot unfolds seamlessly, showcasing Howells' talent for storytelling. A Modern Instance skillfully entwines the personal lives of its characters with the social issues prevailing during that era. The forbidden love affair between Bartley and the complex Marcia Gaylord serves as the linchpin for exploring themes of class, gender roles, and the clash between traditional values and societal progress. Notably, Howells' writing style elevates the overall reading experience. His use of descriptive language immerses readers in the bustling cityscapes of Boston and the tranquil countryside of Equity, Vermont. The attention to detail adds depth to the narrative, allowing readers to visualize and feel the emotions of the characters as they confront their struggles. However, it is Howells' unwavering exploration of morality and social conventions that truly anchors the novel. He shares a nuanced perspective on societal expectations, highlighting the stranglehold they have on individuals and their choices. Howells challenges readers to question the legitimacy of these conventions and to consider alternative paths that prioritize personal happiness and fulfillment. A Modern Instance is a thought-provoking and timely novel that remains relevant even today. Howells' ability to merge social commentary with engaging storytelling creates an enlightening narrative that captivates readers from start to finish. This compelling work solidifies Howells' reputation as one of America's greatest literary voices, offering a revealing window into the human condition. First Page: A MODERN INSTANCE BY WILLIAM DEAN HOWELLS INTRODUCTION. Mr. Howells has written a long series of poems, novels, sketches, stories, and essays, and has been perhaps the most continuous worker in the literary art among American writers. He was born at Martin's Perry, Belmont County, Ohio, March 1, 1837, and the experiences of his early life have been delightfully told by himself in A Boy's Town , My Year in a Log Cabin , and My Literary Passions . These books, which seem like pastimes in the midst of Howells's serious work, are likely to live long, not only as playful autobiographic records, but as vivid pictures of life in the middle west in the middle of the nineteenth century. The boy lived in a home where frugality was the law of economy, but where high ideals of noble living were cheerfully maintained, and the very occupations of the household tended to stimulate literary activity. He read voraciously and with an instinctive scent for what was great and permanent in literature, and in his father's printing office learned to set type, and soon to make contributions to the local journals. He went to the state Capitol to report the proceedings of the legislature, and before he was twenty two had become news editor of the State Journal of Columbus, Ohio. But at the same time he had given clear intimations of his literary skill, and had contributed several poems to the Atlantic Monthly ... Continue reading book >>

A Modern Instance By: William Dean Howells (1837-1920)

In A Modern Instance, William Dean Howells ingeniously explores the complexities of human relationships and the societal pressures that accompany them. Set against a backdrop of the rapidly changing 19th-century American society, this novel masterfully delves into the moral dilemmas faced by its characters.

Howells' vivid portrayal of the main character, Bartley Hubbard, captures the essence of a flawed yet relatable individual. As a young journalist striving for success, Bartley's ambitions often lead him down a treacherous path, testing his loyalty and self-awareness. His dynamic character development allows readers to empathize with his struggles and question their own moral compass.

The plot unfolds seamlessly, showcasing Howells' talent for storytelling. A Modern Instance skillfully entwines the personal lives of its characters with the social issues prevailing during that era. The forbidden love affair between Bartley and the complex Marcia Gaylord serves as the linchpin for exploring themes of class, gender roles, and the clash between traditional values and societal progress.

Notably, Howells' writing style elevates the overall reading experience. His use of descriptive language immerses readers in the bustling cityscapes of Boston and the tranquil countryside of Equity, Vermont. The attention to detail adds depth to the narrative, allowing readers to visualize and feel the emotions of the characters as they confront their struggles.

However, it is Howells' unwavering exploration of morality and social conventions that truly anchors the novel. He shares a nuanced perspective on societal expectations, highlighting the stranglehold they have on individuals and their choices. Howells challenges readers to question the legitimacy of these conventions and to consider alternative paths that prioritize personal happiness and fulfillment.

A Modern Instance is a thought-provoking and timely novel that remains relevant even today. Howells' ability to merge social commentary with engaging storytelling creates an enlightening narrative that captivates readers from start to finish. This compelling work solidifies Howells' reputation as one of America's greatest literary voices, offering a revealing window into the human condition.

First Page:

A MODERN INSTANCE

WILLIAM DEAN HOWELLS

INTRODUCTION.

Mr. Howells has written a long series of poems, novels, sketches, stories, and essays, and has been perhaps the most continuous worker in the literary art among American writers. He was born at Martin's Perry, Belmont County, Ohio, March 1, 1837, and the experiences of his early life have been delightfully told by himself in A Boy's Town , My Year in a Log Cabin , and My Literary Passions . These books, which seem like pastimes in the midst of Howells's serious work, are likely to live long, not only as playful autobiographic records, but as vivid pictures of life in the middle west in the middle of the nineteenth century. The boy lived in a home where frugality was the law of economy, but where high ideals of noble living were cheerfully maintained, and the very occupations of the household tended to stimulate literary activity. He read voraciously and with an instinctive scent for what was great and permanent in literature, and in his father's printing office learned to set type, and soon to make contributions to the local journals. He went to the state Capitol to report the proceedings of the legislature, and before he was twenty two had become news editor of the State Journal of Columbus, Ohio.

But at the same time he had given clear intimations of his literary skill, and had contributed several poems to the Atlantic Monthly ... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Fiction
Literature

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Wikipedia – A Modern Instance

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