11.4 Comparative studies of British and American literature
12 min read•august 20, 2024
The 18th and 19th centuries saw a vibrant exchange of literary ideas between Britain and America. This transatlantic flow shaped the development of literature in both countries, influencing writers, genres, and themes.
Key figures like and Charles Dickens played crucial roles in this exchange. The , evolution of , and growth of the publishing industry further strengthened literary connections across the Atlantic.
Transatlantic literary influences
- The exchange of literary ideas, styles, and genres between Britain and America during the 18th and 19th centuries significantly shaped the development of literature in both countries
- were facilitated by the shared language, cultural heritage, and intellectual traditions of Britain and America
- The flow of literary influences across the Atlantic was not unidirectional but rather a dynamic and reciprocal process, with writers from both sides drawing inspiration and engaging in creative dialogue
British influences on American writers
Top images from around the web for British influences on American writers
Literary Analysis of “She Walks in Beauty” by Lord Byron – Youth Voices View original
Is this image relevant?
Hamnet Shakespeare - Wikipedia View original
Is this image relevant?
Chapter 8: Romanticism – The Creative Spirit: 1550-Present View original
Is this image relevant?
Literary Analysis of “She Walks in Beauty” by Lord Byron – Youth Voices View original
Is this image relevant?
Hamnet Shakespeare - Wikipedia View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 3
Top images from around the web for British influences on American writers
Literary Analysis of “She Walks in Beauty” by Lord Byron – Youth Voices View original
Is this image relevant?
Hamnet Shakespeare - Wikipedia View original
Is this image relevant?
Chapter 8: Romanticism – The Creative Spirit: 1550-Present View original
Is this image relevant?
Literary Analysis of “She Walks in Beauty” by Lord Byron – Youth Voices View original
Is this image relevant?
Hamnet Shakespeare - Wikipedia View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 3
- British literary traditions, particularly those of the and , had a profound impact on the development of American literature
- American writers often looked to British models for inspiration, emulating and adapting genres such as the novel, poetry, and essays to suit their own cultural and social contexts
- The works of British authors like Shakespeare, Milton, and Pope were widely read and admired by American writers, who drew on their themes, techniques, and stylistic innovations
- For example, the influence of Shakespeare's plays can be seen in the works of American dramatists like William Dunlap and James Nelson Barker
American influences on British writers
- As American literature began to develop its own distinct voice and identity, it increasingly captured the attention of British writers and readers
- The unique American experience, characterized by the frontier, democracy, and social mobility, provided fresh subject matter and perspectives that intrigued British authors
- American writers like , James Fenimore Cooper, and Edgar Allan Poe gained popularity in Britain, influencing the works of their British contemporaries
- For instance, Irving's "Sketch Book" and Cooper's "Leatherstocking Tales" inspired British writers to explore themes of nature, adventure, and cultural identity
Comparative themes and motifs
- The 18th and 19th centuries saw the emergence of several key themes and motifs that resonated across both British and American literature
- These shared themes and motifs reflect the common cultural, intellectual, and social concerns of the time, as well as the ongoing transatlantic literary dialogue
- Comparative analysis of these themes and motifs reveals both similarities and differences in how British and American writers approached and interpreted them
Nature and the frontier
- The natural world and the concept of the frontier played a central role in both British and American literature of the period
- In British literature, nature was often depicted as a source of spiritual renewal and moral instruction, as exemplified by the works of Romantic poets like Wordsworth and Coleridge
- American writers, on the other hand, tended to portray nature as a wild and untamed force, symbolizing the challenges and opportunities of the American experience
- The frontier, with its vast landscapes and promise of adventure, became a defining motif in American literature, as seen in the works of Cooper, Irving, and Thoreau
Reason vs romanticism
- The tension between reason and emotion, or Enlightenment rationalism and Romantic sensibility, was a key theme in both British and American literature of the 18th and 19th centuries
- British writers like Pope and Swift championed the ideals of reason, wit, and social satire, while the Romantic poets emphasized imagination, individuality, and the sublime
- American literature also grappled with this dichotomy, with writers like Franklin and Paine representing the rational, pragmatic spirit of the Enlightenment, and figures like Emerson and Whitman embodying the Romantic ethos
- The interplay between reason and romanticism can be seen in the works of authors like Hawthorne and Melville, who explored the psychological and moral complexities of the human experience
Individual vs society
- The relationship between the individual and society, and the tensions that arise from this relationship, was a central concern in both British and American literature of the period
- British writers often explored the theme of the individual's struggle against social conventions and expectations, as seen in the works of Austen, Dickens, and the Brontë sisters
- American literature, with its emphasis on self-reliance and , frequently portrayed the individual as a heroic figure, standing apart from or in opposition to society
- This theme is evident in the works of Emerson, Thoreau, and Whitman, who celebrated the power and potential of the individual spirit
- At the same time, American writers also grappled with the challenges of forging a cohesive national identity and reconciling individual freedom with social responsibility
Genres in transatlantic context
- The 18th and 19th centuries witnessed significant developments and innovations in literary genres, with British and American writers both contributing to and drawing from these evolving forms
- The transatlantic exchange of ideas and influences played a crucial role in shaping the development of genres like the novel, poetry, and non-fiction prose
- Comparative analysis of these genres reveals how British and American writers adapted and transformed them to suit their own cultural, social, and aesthetic purposes
Rise of the novel
- The novel emerged as a dominant literary form in the 18th century, with British writers like Defoe, Richardson, and Fielding establishing the genre's conventions and techniques
- American writers quickly adopted and adapted the novel form, using it to explore uniquely American themes and experiences
- Early American novels, such as Brown's "Wieland" and Rowson's "Charlotte Temple," often focused on the challenges and opportunities of life in the New World
- As the novel evolved in the 19th century, British and American writers continued to innovate and experiment with the form, pushing its boundaries and exploring new subjects and styles
- British novelists like Austen, Dickens, and Eliot perfected the realist novel, while American writers like Hawthorne, Melville, and James developed the romance and the psychological novel
Poetry movements
- The 18th and 19th centuries saw the rise of several major poetry movements, each reflecting the changing cultural, intellectual, and aesthetic currents of the time
- In Britain, the Augustan Age of Pope and Johnson gave way to the Romantic revolution of Wordsworth, Coleridge, Byron, and Keats
- These poets emphasized imagination, emotion, and the sublime, challenging the neoclassical ideals of reason and order
- American poets also participated in these movements, with figures like Bryant, Longfellow, and Whitman drawing on both British and uniquely American influences
- Whitman, in particular, revolutionized American poetry with his free verse and celebratory vision of the American experience
- The transatlantic exchange of poetic ideas and techniques enriched and diversified the poetry of both nations, fostering a vibrant and innovative literary culture
Essays and non-fiction
- The 18th and 19th centuries also witnessed the flourishing of non-fiction prose, with essays, treatises, and other forms of expository writing playing a vital role in shaping public discourse and opinion
- British essayists like Addison, Steele, and Johnson established the essay as a popular and influential genre, using it to comment on a wide range of social, cultural, and intellectual topics
- American writers also made significant contributions to the essay form, with figures like Franklin, Emerson, and Thoreau using it to articulate uniquely American ideas and values
- Franklin's "Autobiography" and Emerson's "Self-Reliance" became canonical texts, embodying the spirit of American individualism and self-reliance
- The transatlantic exchange of ideas through non-fiction prose helped to foster a shared intellectual culture and to shape the development of political, social, and philosophical thought in both Britain and America
Key transatlantic literary figures
- The 18th and 19th centuries produced a number of key literary figures whose works and ideas had a significant impact on both sides of the Atlantic
- These writers, through their travels, correspondence, and literary productions, played a crucial role in facilitating the transatlantic exchange of ideas and influences
- Comparative analysis of these figures reveals the complex ways in which they navigated and contributed to the evolving literary and cultural landscapes of Britain and America
Benjamin Franklin
- Benjamin Franklin, a quintessential Enlightenment figure, made significant contributions to both American and British literary culture
- As a printer, publisher, and essayist, Franklin played a key role in shaping the early American literary marketplace and in promoting the ideals of reason, practicality, and self-improvement
- His "Autobiography," published posthumously, became a classic of American literature and a model for the self-made man
- Franklin's travels to Britain and his extensive network of British correspondents and collaborators helped to strengthen the transatlantic intellectual and literary community
- His work as a diplomat and statesman also contributed to the growing cultural and political ties between Britain and America
Washington Irving
- Washington Irving, one of the first American writers to achieve international fame, played a significant role in promoting American literature abroad and in fostering transatlantic literary exchange
- Irving's "Sketch Book," which included stories like "Rip Van Winkle" and "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow," was widely read and admired in both America and Britain
- These stories, with their blend of American settings and European literary techniques, helped to establish a distinctly American voice in literature
- Irving's travels and residences in Europe, particularly in Britain, allowed him to absorb and adapt European literary influences and to serve as a cultural ambassador for American literature
- His writings and personal connections helped to promote a greater understanding and appreciation of American culture and literature among British readers and writers
Charles Dickens in America
- Charles Dickens, the preeminent British novelist of the Victorian era, had a complex and influential relationship with American literary culture
- Dickens's novels, with their vivid characters, social criticism, and serialized publication format, were enormously popular in America and helped to shape the development of the American novel
- American writers like Poe, Hawthorne, and Melville were deeply influenced by Dickens's techniques and themes, adapting them to their own literary purposes
- Dickens's American travels and his writings about American society, such as his travelogue "American Notes" and his novel "Martin Chuzzlewit," sparked both admiration and controversy among American readers and writers
- These works, while critical of certain aspects of American culture, also helped to generate transatlantic dialogue and debate about social, political, and literary issues
- Dickens's enduring popularity and influence in America testify to the strength and vitality of the transatlantic literary relationship in the 19th century
Transatlantic publishing industry
- The 18th and 19th centuries saw the rapid expansion and professionalization of the publishing industry, with significant implications for the transatlantic literary marketplace
- Advances in printing technology, the growth of literacy and education, and the emergence of new distribution networks and business models transformed the production and circulation of books and periodicals
- The , with its complex web of economic, legal, and cultural relationships, played a crucial role in shaping the development of literature in both Britain and America
Copyright and piracy issues
- The lack of international copyright laws in the 18th and 19th centuries led to widespread piracy and unauthorized reprinting of British and American works on both sides of the Atlantic
- American publishers, in particular, often reprinted British works without permission or compensation, taking advantage of the lack of legal protections for foreign authors
- This practice, while beneficial for American readers and publishers, was a source of frustration and financial loss for British writers and publishers
- Efforts to establish international copyright treaties and to protect the rights of authors and publishers were a major concern throughout the period
- The Berne Convention of 1886, which established international standards for copyright protection, was a significant milestone in the history of transatlantic publishing
Serialization of novels
- The in was a common practice in both Britain and America during the 18th and 19th centuries
- Serialization allowed publishers to test the market for new works, to build anticipation and demand among readers, and to generate steady income through subscriptions and advertising
- Many of the most popular and influential novels of the period, such as Dickens's "The Pickwick Papers" and Harriet Beecher Stowe's "Uncle Tom's Cabin," were initially published in serialized form
- The transatlantic circulation of serialized novels helped to create a shared literary culture and to foster a sense of simultaneous readership and experience across national boundaries
- American readers eagerly awaited the latest installments of British novels, while British readers followed the progress of American works with interest and anticipation
Magazines and periodicals
- Magazines and periodicals played a vital role in the transatlantic literary marketplace of the 18th and 19th centuries, serving as key venues for the publication and circulation of literature, criticism, and ideas
- British periodicals like the Edinburgh Review, the Quarterly Review, and Blackwood's Magazine were widely read and influential on both sides of the Atlantic
- These publications helped to shape literary taste, to promote new writers and works, and to foster transatlantic intellectual exchange
- American magazines and periodicals, such as the North American Review, the Knickerbocker, and the Atlantic Monthly, also played a significant role in the development of American literature and in the promotion of transatlantic literary relations
- These publications often featured works by both American and British writers, as well as reviews and commentaries on transatlantic literary trends and developments
- The transatlantic circulation of magazines and periodicals helped to create a shared literary culture and to facilitate the exchange of ideas and influences between British and American writers and readers
Comparative reception and criticism
- The reception and criticism of British and American literature in the 18th and 19th centuries was shaped by a complex set of cultural, social, and aesthetic factors
- The transatlantic circulation of literary works and ideas led to a rich and diverse body of critical discourse, with reviewers, essayists, and other commentators on both sides of the Atlantic engaging in lively debates and discussions
- Comparative analysis of the reception and criticism of British and American literature reveals the ways in which national identities, cultural values, and literary traditions intersected and diverged across the Atlantic divide
Contemporary reviews and reactions
- to British and American literature in the 18th and 19th centuries provide valuable insights into the ways in which these works were received and interpreted by their initial audiences
- British reviews of American literature often reflected a mix of admiration, curiosity, and skepticism, with critics grappling with the novelty and distinctiveness of the American literary voice
- For example, early reviews of Emerson and Whitman were often characterized by a sense of bewilderment and ambivalence, as British critics struggled to make sense of their unconventional styles and themes
- American reviews of British literature, on the other hand, often reflected a sense of cultural deference and aspiration, with critics measuring American works against the standards and achievements of the British literary tradition
- At the same time, American reviewers increasingly asserted the value and originality of American literature, challenging the notion of British cultural supremacy
Lasting critical legacies
- The critical legacies of British and American literature in the 18th and 19th centuries continue to shape our understanding and appreciation of these works today
- The ideas and interpretations of early critics and commentators have been absorbed into the larger fabric of literary history and scholarship, influencing subsequent generations of readers and scholars
- For example, the early championing of Whitman by British critics like William Michael Rossetti helped to establish his reputation as a major American poet and to secure his place in the transatlantic literary canon
- At the same time, later critics and scholars have often challenged and revised earlier assessments of British and American literature, bringing new perspectives and approaches to bear on these works
- The ongoing critical dialogue around these works reflects the enduring vitality and significance of the transatlantic literary tradition
Canonization of works
- The process of canonization, or the establishment of certain works and authors as central to the literary tradition, was shaped by a complex set of factors in the 18th and 19th centuries
- The transatlantic circulation of literature and ideas played a significant role in the canonization of British and American works, with critics, publishers, and other cultural arbiters on both sides of the Atlantic contributing to the process
- For example, the canonization of Shakespeare in the 19th century was a transatlantic phenomenon, with American critics and scholars playing a key role in promoting and interpreting his works
- The canonization of American literature, in particular, was a contested and dynamic process, with advocates and detractors on both sides of the Atlantic debating the merits and significance of American writers and works
- The eventual inclusion of figures like Emerson, Hawthorne, Melville, and Whitman in the American literary canon reflected the growing cultural confidence and assertiveness of the United States in the 19th century
- The ongoing debates and discussions around the literary canon reflect the enduring importance of the transatlantic literary tradition and its role in shaping our cultural and intellectual heritage
Key Terms to Review (29)
American Gothic: American Gothic is a literary and artistic movement that emerged in the United States during the late 18th and early 19th centuries, characterized by its use of dark themes, supernatural elements, and an exploration of the human psyche. This genre often reflects the anxieties of American society, incorporating elements of horror, isolation, and moral ambiguity to highlight the complexities of human nature and the struggle between good and evil.
American influences on British writers: American influences on British writers refers to the ways in which literary works, themes, and ideas from American authors impacted and shaped the writings of British authors during the 18th and 19th centuries. This exchange contributed to a cross-pollination of styles and perspectives, leading British writers to incorporate American themes such as democracy, individualism, and frontier life into their own works.
Benjamin Franklin: Benjamin Franklin was a Founding Father of the United States, known for his contributions as a statesman, inventor, writer, and diplomat. His experiences in Europe helped to shape American identity and literary traditions, influencing both American and British literature through his ideas about individualism and civic responsibility.
British influences on American writers: British influences on American writers refer to the impact that British literary traditions, styles, and themes had on the development of American literature, particularly during the 18th and 19th centuries. This connection is marked by the exchange of ideas, storytelling techniques, and cultural values, shaping a distinctive American voice while still reflecting the roots of British literary heritage. The evolution of American literature can be seen as a response to British works, leading to unique expressions of identity and experiences.
Canonization of works: The canonization of works refers to the process by which certain literary texts are selected and deemed worthy of preservation, study, and inclusion in the 'canon' of literature. This process often reflects cultural, historical, and social values, determining which works are celebrated and recognized as significant over time.
Charles Dickens in America: Charles Dickens in America refers to the author's experiences during his visits to the United States in the 1840s and 1860s, which profoundly influenced both his works and his perception of American society. During these visits, Dickens interacted with American culture, politics, and social issues, providing a critical lens through which he examined the contrasts and similarities between British and American life.
Comparative reception and criticism: Comparative reception and criticism is the study of how different literary works are received, interpreted, and critiqued across cultures and time periods, particularly comparing British and American literature. This approach reveals the influences, adaptations, and responses that shape literary traditions in both contexts. It allows for a deeper understanding of how cultural, social, and historical factors contribute to the appreciation and critique of literary texts.
Comparative themes and motifs: Comparative themes and motifs refer to recurring elements, ideas, or patterns that can be found in different literary works, often across cultural or national boundaries. By examining these similarities, readers can gain deeper insights into how literature reflects shared human experiences, values, and societal issues, as well as the unique characteristics of distinct literary traditions.
Contemporary reviews and reactions: Contemporary reviews and reactions refer to the responses and critiques of literature as they were published and consumed during the time they were created. These responses provide insights into how texts were received by their immediate audiences, including literary critics, scholars, and the general public, reflecting the cultural, social, and political contexts of their times.
Copyright and piracy issues: Copyright and piracy issues refer to the legal rights that creators have over their original works and the unauthorized use or reproduction of those works. These issues are significant as they protect authors, artists, and creators from having their work exploited without permission, while also raising debates on accessibility, fair use, and the balance between protection and public access. In the context of literary studies, especially in comparing British and American literature, these issues highlight the historical development of copyright laws and how they influenced literary production and distribution.
Enlightenment: The Enlightenment was an intellectual and cultural movement that emerged in the late 17th and 18th centuries, emphasizing reason, individualism, and skepticism of traditional authority. It promoted the idea that humanity could be improved through rational thought, scientific inquiry, and philosophical discourse, influencing various aspects of society including politics, arts, and education.
Essays and non-fiction: Essays and non-fiction are written works that present factual information, analysis, or personal reflections on a subject. Unlike fiction, which creates imaginative narratives, essays and non-fiction focus on real events, ideas, or arguments, often employing a structured approach to communicate their messages. These forms are crucial in exploring cultural, philosophical, and social issues in both British and American literature, allowing writers to express their viewpoints and provoke thought among readers.
Genres in transatlantic context: Genres in transatlantic context refer to the different categories of literature that emerged and evolved across the Atlantic Ocean, particularly between Britain and America during the 18th and 19th centuries. This term highlights how genres such as the novel, poetry, and drama were influenced by cultural exchanges, historical events, and societal changes on both sides of the Atlantic, leading to unique variations and developments within each genre.
Individual vs Society: The term 'individual vs society' refers to the conflict or tension that arises between personal desires, beliefs, and identity and the expectations, norms, and pressures imposed by a collective group or society. This theme often highlights the struggle for self-identity in the face of societal demands, showcasing how individuals navigate their personal autonomy while contending with societal conformity, which is significant in both British and American literature from the 18th and 19th centuries.
Individualism: Individualism is the principle of valuing and prioritizing the individual over the collective, emphasizing personal autonomy, self-reliance, and unique identity. This concept is woven through various literary movements, encouraging characters and authors to explore their own thoughts, feelings, and experiences as a reflection of broader societal changes and philosophies.
Key transatlantic literary figures: Key transatlantic literary figures are influential authors and poets whose works contributed significantly to the literary movements in both Britain and America during the 18th and 19th centuries. These figures often bridged cultural gaps, addressing themes of identity, society, and politics, and their writings reflect the interconnectedness of British and American literary traditions.
Lasting critical legacies: Lasting critical legacies refer to the enduring influences and impacts that literary works, movements, and authors have on future generations, shaping cultural, social, and political contexts. These legacies are evident in the ways literature reflects and critiques societal norms, inspires new artistic movements, and informs contemporary discussions on identity, power, and ethics.
Magazines and periodicals: Magazines and periodicals are publications that are released at regular intervals, containing a variety of articles, stories, illustrations, and advertisements. They serve as an important medium for disseminating information, entertainment, and cultural commentary, reflecting societal values and trends of their time, particularly in the context of British and American literature.
Nature and the frontier: Nature and the frontier refer to the relationship between the natural environment and the concept of the boundary or edge of civilization, often symbolizing exploration, adventure, and the human struggle against nature. This theme plays a crucial role in both British and American literature, showcasing differing perspectives on how nature influences identity, morality, and societal values in a rapidly changing world.
Poetry movements: Poetry movements refer to significant trends or schools of thought that influence the creation and style of poetry during specific historical periods. These movements often reflect broader cultural, political, and artistic shifts, shaping how poets express their ideas and emotions through verse. Understanding these movements is crucial for analyzing the relationship between British and American literature, as they reveal how poets in different regions respond to similar themes and influences.
Reason vs Romanticism: Reason vs Romanticism refers to the contrasting ideologies that emerged during the 18th and 19th centuries, where reason emphasizes logic, order, and rational thought, while Romanticism values emotion, nature, and individual experience. This duality significantly influenced both British and American literature, shaping themes, styles, and character development across various works. The tension between these two movements reflects broader societal changes, including shifts in artistic expression and philosophical inquiry.
Rise of the novel: The rise of the novel refers to the emergence and popularity of the novel as a literary form during the 18th and 19th centuries, marking a significant shift in storytelling and narrative style. This period saw novels become a dominant form of literature, reflecting social changes, individualism, and the complexities of human experiences. The rise of the novel was not only a British phenomenon but also resonated in American literature, illustrating a growing interest in personal narratives and diverse voices.
Romanticism: Romanticism was an artistic, literary, and intellectual movement that originated in the late 18th century and emphasized emotion, individualism, and the beauty of nature. It arose as a response to the rationalism of the Enlightenment and the constraints of Neoclassicism, celebrating personal experience and imagination as key components of creativity.
Serialization of novels: Serialization of novels refers to the practice of publishing a single novel in installments, often through periodicals or magazines, rather than as a complete work. This method allowed authors to reach a broader audience and engage readers over time, fostering anticipation and discussion about each installment. The serialization format was particularly prominent in the 18th and 19th centuries, impacting literary communities on both sides of the Atlantic.
Social critique: Social critique refers to the practice of analyzing and evaluating societal structures, norms, and issues to highlight injustices and provoke change. It often serves as a lens through which literature examines and questions the moral and ethical implications of society, encouraging readers to reflect on their own values and beliefs.
Transatlantic literary influences: Transatlantic literary influences refer to the exchange of ideas, themes, and styles between American and British writers, particularly during the 18th and 19th centuries. This cross-pollination significantly shaped both American literature and British literary traditions, fostering a dialogue that enriched their respective narratives and perspectives. Writers from both sides of the Atlantic drew inspiration from each other, leading to shared motifs, genres, and cultural reflections that bridged the gap between the two literary worlds.
Transatlantic publishing industry: The transatlantic publishing industry refers to the interconnected network of book publishing that emerged between Britain and the United States during the 18th and 19th centuries. This industry facilitated the exchange of literary works, ideas, and cultural values across the Atlantic Ocean, influencing both British and American literature significantly. It played a crucial role in shaping literary movements, promoting authors, and expanding readership on both sides of the Atlantic.
Victorian Realism: Victorian realism is a literary movement that emerged during the Victorian era in Britain, characterized by its focus on depicting everyday life and the experiences of ordinary people. This movement aimed to represent reality with accuracy and detail, often addressing social issues and moral dilemmas that were prevalent in society at the time. Authors sought to create relatable characters and situations, breaking away from the romanticism that dominated earlier literature.
Washington Irving: Washington Irving was an influential American writer, essayist, and historian, best known for his short stories such as 'Rip Van Winkle' and 'The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.' His works helped shape American literature during the early 19th century and reflected the growing American identity, particularly in relation to European influences.