Author
Julia Ward Howe
1819-1910
Julia Ward Howe (1819-1910) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Julia Ward Howe
Reminiscences, 1819-1899
"Reminiscences, 1819-1899" by Julia Ward Howe is an autobiographical account written in the late 19th century. This memoir chronicles Howe’s life from her early childhood in New York through to her adult experiences, including her literary pursuits and social commentary. The book offers readers a glimpse into the life of a prominent social reformer, poet, and women's rights activist during a transformative period in American history. The opening of the memoir begins with Howe reflecting on her life and the changes she has witnessed throughout the 19th century. From her birth in New York City to the powerful intellectual and social currents that shaped her upbringing, she shares memories of her family, childhood experiences, and initial interactions with notable figures in literature and society. Howe paints a rich tapestry of her early life, discussing her education, the profound loss of her mother, and her father's strict upbringing that emphasized moral and religious values, setting the stage for the influential life she would lead as an adult.
From the Oak to the Olive: A Plain record of a Pleasant Journey
"From the Oak to the Olive: A Plain Record of a Pleasant Journey" by Julia Ward Howe is a travel narrative written in the late 19th century. The work chronicles the author's experiences during her travels through Europe, particularly focusing on her reflections and observations about society, culture, and art in various cities such as Liverpool, Chester, London, Paris, and Rome. The book presents a blend of personal exploration and commentary on the socio-political environments of the places visited. The opening of the narrative establishes Howe's intent to document her journey without the constraints of immediate market expectations or editorial influence. She expresses her desire to present a more thoughtful and multidimensional account of her experiences rather than a hurried, superficial reporting typical of press correspondents. The initial sections describe her voyage across the Atlantic, the characters she encounters on board, and her observations upon reaching England, where she reflects on cultural contrasts between Americans and Europeans, and the nuances of travel that both bind and differentiate the travelers. Through her keen observations, Howe invites readers to consider the deeper meanings behind their travels and the connections forged through shared experiences.
Margaret Fuller (Marchesa Ossoli)
"Margaret Fuller (Marchesa Ossoli)" by Julia Ward Howe is a biography written in the late 19th century. The book focuses on the life and legacy of Margaret Fuller, a renowned figure in American literature and early feminism, exploring her intellectual contributions and personal experiences. It examines her childhood, education, and the relationships she formed with prominent thinkers of her time, delving into her unique struggles as a woman in a male-dominated society. The opening of the biography introduces Margaret Fuller's early years, detailing her upbringing in a politically engaged family in Cambridgeport, near Boston. It highlights her father's ambitious educational aspirations for her, which led to her prodigious intellectual development at a young age, including studying Latin and literature. As she navigates her early schooling and relationships with her peers, we see the challenges she faced due to her precocious nature and vivid imagination. Despite moments of struggle with her identity and acceptance among her classmates, she emerges with a fervent passion for learning and personal growth, setting the stage for her impactful future in writing and activism.
A Trip to Cuba
"A Trip to Cuba" by Julia Ward Howe is a travel narrative written in the mid-19th century. This work chronicles the author's experiences and observations during her journey from the United States to Cuba, including her reflections on the landscapes, cultures, and the people she encounters along the way. As she travels on the British Mail steamer "Karnak," the narrative offers insights into the discomforts of sea travel, the exuberance of anticipation, and the nuances of foreign societies. At the start of the narrative, the author reflects on the bittersweet emotions associated with leaving home for the adventure that lies ahead. She captures the sensation of embarking on a voyage, detailing the initial discomfort of sea sickness among her fellow passengers and the vibrant colors of nature as they approach Nassau before continuing on to Cuba. Through humor and keen observation, she sets the stage for a journey that promises not only exploration of Cuba's physical beauty but also contemplations on societal structures, particularly regarding the treatment of people, including topics such as slavery. The prose is rich and descriptive, effectively engaging the reader's curiosity about her travel experiences.
Is Polite Society Polite? and Other Essays
"Is Polite Society Polite?" by Julia Ward Howe is a collection of essays written in the late 19th century. The book explores themes of social behavior and manners, particularly questioning the nature of politeness in society. Drawing on her own experiences and observations, Howe critiques the shortcomings of so-called polite society while advocating for a humane, sincere approach to social interactions. The opening of the essay "Is Polite Society Polite?" begins by introducing the complexities of urban life, suggesting that ambitions can lead individuals to pursue success at the cost of sincerity and genuine manners. Howe discusses the importance of sincerity as the foundation of politeness and criticizes behaviors such as flattery and detraction. Through reflections on her own life, she recounts the lessons learned about the obligations of social conduct, including the importance of integrity when relating to others, especially in terms of one's personal connections and responsibilities. The essay sets the stage for a broader discourse on how to uphold polite society's true essence amidst prevalent societal flaws.
Modern Society
"Modern Society" by Julia Ward Howe is a philosophical work written in the late 19th century. The book explores the complexities and contradictions inherent in contemporary society, examining themes of individuality, morality, and the evolving social landscape. The author reflects on humanity's dual nature, balancing social interaction with moments of profound solitude, and discusses the interplay of various societal forces in shaping moral and ethical developments. The opening of the text introduces Howe's quest to analyze modern society while evoking a metaphorical journey through its many facets. She alludes to the pressures of philosophical inquiry as she grapples with a range of contradictions found in social structures and individual behaviors. Howe conveys her observations and personal insights, drawing on historical examples to illustrate the changes she has witnessed over her lifetime. She presents a dynamic panorama of encounters with diverse cultures and individuals, emphasizing the need for genuine engagement with both familiar and foreign societies while highlighting the challenges posed by materialism and the quest for moral integrity.