William Dean Howells

Definition

William Dean Howells was an influential American novelist, critic, and editor who played a pivotal role in shaping the literary movement of realism in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He emphasized everyday life and social issues in his works, showcasing the complexities of human experiences, which laid the groundwork for both psychological and urban realism. His belief that literature should reflect ordinary life made him a significant figure in American literature, pushing writers to explore deeper psychological dimensions and the intricacies of urban settings.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. William Dean Howells is often referred to as the 'Dean of American Letters' due to his influential role in American literature during his time.
2. He served as the editor of 'The Atlantic Monthly', where he championed many emerging writers and advocated for realistic literature.
3. Howells' novel 'The Rise of Silas Lapham' is a notable work that examines social class and moral dilemmas in an urban setting.
4. His approach to writing was characterized by a commitment to truthfulness in representing life, which set a precedent for later authors exploring similar themes.
5. Howells' belief in the importance of social issues led him to address topics like class conflict, industrialization, and the changing American society in his works.

Review Questions

• How did William Dean Howells contribute to the development of realism in American literature?
  • William Dean Howells significantly contributed to realism by emphasizing the portrayal of everyday life and social issues in his writings. He believed that literature should reflect real experiences rather than romanticized versions of life. His works encouraged writers to focus on ordinary characters and their struggles, leading to a broader acceptance of realism as a legitimate literary movement.
• What role did psychological realism play in Howells' writing style, particularly in his exploration of character motivations?
  • Psychological realism played a crucial role in Howells' writing style as he focused on delving into the inner thoughts and emotions of his characters. By exploring their motivations, dilemmas, and relationships, Howells created multi-dimensional characters that reflected the complexities of human nature. This approach not only enriched his narratives but also paved the way for future authors to explore psychological depth in their characterizations.
• Evaluate how William Dean Howells’ exploration of urban settings reflects the societal changes occurring in America during his time.
  • William Dean Howells' exploration of urban settings is deeply reflective of the societal changes occurring in America during the late 19th century. As cities expanded due to industrialization and migration, Howells highlighted the struggles faced by individuals in these environments, such as class conflict and moral ambiguity. His focus on urban realism allowed readers to engage with pressing social issues, revealing how the rapid changes in society impacted personal lives. Through his works, Howells not only captured the essence of urban existence but also critiqued the transformations affecting American culture.

Related terms

Realism: A literary movement focused on depicting everyday life and society without embellishment or idealization, often emphasizing ordinary characters and their experiences.

Psychological Realism: A narrative technique that delves into the inner thoughts, emotions, and motivations of characters, providing a more nuanced understanding of their actions and decisions.

Urban Realism:

A sub-genre of realism that specifically focuses on the lives and struggles of characters in urban settings, reflecting the complexities and challenges of city life.