George Washington Harris

Definition

George Washington Harris was an American author known for his local color writing and humorous storytelling, particularly through his creation of the character 'Sut Lovingood'. His works often depicted the culture and dialects of the Southern United States, making significant contributions to the development of regional literature during the 19th century. By embracing the vernacular and unique characteristics of Southern life, Harris became a prominent figure in local color writing, showcasing the importance of regional dialects in literature.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. George Washington Harris published his first story featuring Sut Lovingood in 1859, which quickly gained popularity for its humor and vivid depiction of Southern culture.
2. Harris's works often included tall tales and exaggerated stories that reflected the oral tradition of storytelling prevalent in the South.
3. He used dialect extensively in his writing, which helped to create authentic characters and capture the essence of Southern speech patterns.
4. Harris's influence can be seen in the works of later authors who also focused on local color and regional dialects, including Mark Twain and Bret Harte.
5. Despite his contributions to American literature, Harris's work was often overshadowed by other writers of his time but has been rediscovered by scholars interested in local color writing.

Review Questions

• How did George Washington Harris contribute to the development of local color writing in American literature?
  • George Washington Harris significantly contributed to local color writing by creating relatable characters and stories that showcased the culture and dialects of the Southern United States. His character Sut Lovingood embodied the humor and distinct characteristics of Southern life, using regional vernacular that made his narratives authentic. Through this approach, Harris helped establish a literary tradition that celebrated local color and laid the groundwork for future writers in this genre.
• In what ways did Harris's use of dialect enhance his storytelling and characterization?
  • Harris's use of dialect was crucial in enhancing his storytelling by providing authenticity to his characters and making their experiences relatable to readers. The unique speech patterns and vocabulary he employed captured the nuances of Southern culture, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the setting. This focus on dialect not only added depth to characters like Sut Lovingood but also illustrated the broader social dynamics present in the South during the 19th century.
• Evaluate the impact of George Washington Harris's work on future American authors focusing on regional literature and dialects.
  • The impact of George Washington Harris's work on future American authors is evident in how he paved the way for writers like Mark Twain and Bret Harte to explore regional literature and dialects. His emphasis on local color and authentic representations of speech influenced these authors' approaches to character development and storytelling. As a result, Harris's legacy can be seen in how subsequent generations embraced regionalism as a vital aspect of American literature, highlighting diverse voices and cultural experiences that shaped the nation's narrative.

Related terms

Local Color: A literary genre that emphasizes the specific features of a particular region, including its customs, dialects, and landscapes.

Dialect: A particular form of a language that is specific to a region or social group, often including unique pronunciations and vocabulary.

Sut Lovingood: A fictional character created by George Washington Harris who embodies the humorous and often exaggerated traits of a Southern backwoodsman.