Washington Irving

Definition

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.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Irving was the first American author to gain international acclaim, paving the way for future American writers to find success abroad.
2. His work often incorporated elements of folklore and legend, blending humor with a critique of society and culture.
3. Irving spent a significant amount of time in Europe, where he was influenced by British literary traditions and culture.
4. His writings contributed to the establishment of a distinct American voice in literature, differentiating it from European influences.
5. Irving served as the U.S. ambassador to Spain, further connecting him to transatlantic relations and cross-cultural exchanges.

Review Questions

• How did Washington Irving's time in Europe influence his writing and themes?
  • Washington Irving's experiences in Europe significantly influenced his writing by exposing him to British literary traditions and cultural norms. While living abroad, he drew inspiration from European folklore and storytelling techniques, which he blended with American themes. This resulted in works that reflected both his American identity and his appreciation for European culture, creating a unique transatlantic dialogue in his narratives.
• In what ways did Washington Irving's work contribute to the formation of an American literary identity that could be compared with British literature?
  • Washington Irving's writings played a crucial role in shaping an American literary identity by infusing traditional European forms with distinctly American themes and settings. His incorporation of local folklore and humor set him apart from his British counterparts while still maintaining narrative techniques familiar to European readers. Through stories like 'Rip Van Winkle,' Irving showcased American landscapes and cultural nuances, effectively establishing a body of work that could stand alongside British literature in terms of quality and significance.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of Washington Irving on American literature and how his legacy continues to resonate today.
  • Washington Irving's long-term impact on American literature is profound, as he paved the way for future generations of writers seeking to establish a unique voice. His blending of folklore with personal narrative opened doors for other authors to explore similar themes. Today, Irving's legacy is evident in how contemporary writers draw on local traditions and narratives while engaging with global influences, reflecting a literary landscape that continues to honor both its roots and its connections to the broader world.

Related terms

Knickerbocker School: A group of early 19th-century American writers, including Irving, who were known for their contributions to American literature, especially in New York City.

Romanticism: An artistic and literary movement that emphasized emotion, individualism, and nature, often reacting against the rationalism of the Enlightenment.

Transcendentalism: A philosophical movement that emerged in the 1830s and 1840s in America, emphasizing intuition and the inherent goodness of people and nature, with connections to some of Irving's themes.