Sarah Orne Jewett

Definition

Sarah Orne Jewett was an American author known for her contributions to regionalism and local color writing in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Her works often focus on the life and culture of New England, particularly Maine, capturing the unique characteristics of small-town life and the intricacies of human relationships within these settings.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Jewett was born in 1849 in South Berwick, Maine, and her upbringing significantly influenced her writing style and choice of subject matter.
2. She was a key figure in the local color movement, which sought to depict regional life authentically and often included detailed descriptions of everyday experiences.
3. Her writing is characterized by a strong sense of place, with Maine serving as both a backdrop and a vital component of her stories.
4. Jewett's works often feature strong female characters and explore themes of friendship and community, reflecting the social dynamics of her time.
5. Her most notable works include 'The Country of the Pointed Firs' and 'A White Heron,' both of which showcase her mastery of narrative voice and regional detail.

Review Questions

• How does Sarah Orne Jewett's writing reflect the principles of regionalism?
  • Sarah Orne Jewett's writing embodies regionalism through her vivid depictions of New England, particularly Maine. She captures the unique culture, traditions, and dialects of small towns, bringing to life the experiences of everyday people. By focusing on local settings and exploring the interconnectedness of community members, Jewett illustrates the richness of regional identity and its influence on individual lives.
• Discuss how Jewett's portrayal of female characters contributes to the themes found in local color writing.
  • Jewett's portrayal of female characters adds depth to her local color writing by showcasing their roles within the community and their relationships with one another. Her characters often navigate societal expectations while forming strong bonds that reflect their shared experiences. This focus on female perspectives not only enriches her narratives but also highlights the importance of women's voices in the context of regional life.
• Evaluate the impact of Sarah Orne Jewett on American literature and how her work paved the way for future writers in the local color genre.
  • Sarah Orne Jewett's impact on American literature is significant as she helped establish local color writing as a respected literary form. Her detailed observations of regional life laid the groundwork for future authors to explore similar themes in their work. By highlighting the importance of place and character development, Jewett influenced writers like Willa Cather and Eudora Welty, who continued to explore regional narratives in their own distinctive styles. Her legacy endures as her stories continue to resonate with readers interested in exploring the complexities of American identity through a local lens.

Related terms

Regionalism: A literary movement that emphasizes the specific characteristics, culture, and customs of a particular geographical area.

Local Color Writing: A style of writing that presents the distinctive features of a particular region, including dialect, customs, and attitudes.

The Country of the Pointed Firs: One of Jewett's most famous works, this novella reflects her deep connection to Maine and provides a vivid portrayal of its landscape and people.