William Dean Howells

Definition

William Dean Howells was an American author and literary critic, best known for his role as a leading figure in the Realist movement during the late 19th century. He emphasized the depiction of everyday life and social issues, aiming to present a truthful representation of reality in literature, which connected to the broader cultural shifts of the time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Howells is often referred to as the 'Dean of American Letters' due to his extensive contributions to American literature and criticism.
2. He published significant works like 'The Rise of Silas Lapham' and 'A Modern Instance', which explored the complexities of American society and morality.
3. Howells was a strong advocate for realism, believing that literature should reflect the true experiences and struggles of ordinary people.
4. He also played a crucial role in introducing European literary realism to American readers, helping to shape the expectations of contemporary literature.
5. Throughout his career, Howells was involved in literary circles that included prominent authors such as Mark Twain and Henry James, influencing their work and the direction of American fiction.

Review Questions

• How did William Dean Howells define realism in literature, and what were its key characteristics?
  • William Dean Howells defined realism as a movement that focused on depicting everyday life and societal issues without embellishment or idealization. Key characteristics of realism include detailed descriptions of ordinary characters, settings that reflect true social conditions, and plots grounded in actual human experiences. Howells believed that this approach allowed literature to address genuine social concerns and resonate with readers on a more relatable level.
• In what ways did Howells's work reflect the social issues of his time, and how did he use literature as a tool for social commentary?
  • Howells's work often tackled pressing social issues such as class disparity, industrialization, and the complexities of modern life in America. Through his novels, he portrayed characters grappling with moral dilemmas within their societal contexts, reflecting the struggles faced by individuals in a rapidly changing world. By presenting these realistic scenarios, Howells used literature not just for entertainment but as a means to critique social norms and advocate for greater understanding of diverse human experiences.
• Evaluate Howells's influence on future generations of writers and the development of American literature as a whole.
  • William Dean Howells had a profound impact on future generations of writers by establishing realism as a dominant literary form in America. His emphasis on portraying genuine human experiences influenced authors such as Henry James and later modernist writers who sought to delve deeper into psychological complexities. By championing realistic narratives, Howells helped pave the way for more nuanced storytelling techniques, allowing literature to evolve into a medium capable of exploring both individual consciousness and broader social dynamics.

Related terms

Realism:

A literary movement that emerged in the mid-19th century, focusing on realistic portrayals of everyday life and society, rejecting romanticism and idealization.

Social Criticism: A form of critical analysis that examines societal structures and issues, often highlighting injustices and advocating for change through literature.

The Atlantic Monthly: A prominent American magazine where Howells served as an editor, influencing literary culture and promoting realist writers during his tenure.