Irving and the Legend of Detailed Descriptions

Asher K. Sisneros Dr. Gary North American Literature  December 23, 2024 Washington Irving was the first American author with international prowess, and he used words masterfully, painting a picture in his readers’ minds. His two most prominent tales are The Legend of Sleepy Hollow and Rip Van Winkle. Both, though very different, share light-hearted and … More Irving and the Legend of Detailed Descriptions

Life of Washington: Humorous Embellishment

Upon Washington’s death, interest in his private life—and the man behind the public image—only increased, and Weems answered that demand by writing “Life of Washington.” It immediately became an instant success and retained popularity. Through the 19th century, it was among the most popular books in America, and many of the stories in his biography continue to be taught to young children in modern-day America. But the question is, how accurate is the biography, and is it believable? Is it an insightful piece of American scholarship or crude propaganda meant to deify the chief Founding Father? … More Life of Washington: Humorous Embellishment