Author
Donald Ogden Stewart
1894-1980
Donald Ogden Stewart (1894-1980) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaBooks by Donald Ogden Stewart
Perfect Behavior: A Guide for Ladies and Gentlemen in All Social Crises
"Perfect Behavior: A Guide for Ladies and Gentlemen in All Social Crises" by Donald Ogden Stewart is a satirical guidebook on etiquette that likely dates back to the early 20th century. This work parodies the norms of polite society, offering humorous insights into the social interactions and customs of courtship, engagements, weddings, and everyday behavior. With a focus on the absurdities and intricacies of social expectations, it addresses the importance of manners and the often comical consequences of social faux pas. The opening of the book delves into the etiquette of courtship, presenting a playful perspective on a young gentleman named Richard Roe as he navigates the complex rules of social interactions when pursuing a refined young lady, Dorothy Doe. Stewart’s writing captures the whimsical nature of dating rituals, from correct introductions to the significance of flowers and their meanings in a budding romance. Through a series of exaggerated and humorous examples, the narrative sets the tone for a lighthearted exploration of social customs, suggesting that navigating these behaviors can often border on the ridiculous.
A Parody Outline of History Wherein May Be Found a Curiously Irreverent Treatment of American Historical Events, Imagining Them as They Would Be Narrated by America's Most Characteristic Contemporary Authors
"A Parody Outline of History" by Donald Ogden Stewart is a satirical collection that humorously explores American historical events through the lens of famous contemporary authors. Written in the early 20th century, it presents a playful and irreverent take on significant events in American history, using the stylistic quirks of various notable writers to recount these tales in a lighthearted manner. The opening of this work introduces the idea that American history can best be told by Americans, playfully critiquing H.G. Wells' omission of certain events in his own historical outline. Stewart embarks on this endeavor with a set of short chapters that will parody the styles of writers ranging from William Lyon Phelps to Sinclair Lewis, and more. The first chapter functions as a commentary on American history itself, reminiscing about a performance of "Peter Pan" and weaving in humorous anecdotals about figures like Woodrow Wilson. This preamble sets the stage for the unique format of the book, as it seems ready to blend historical fiction with comedic parodies that challenge the traditional narratives of American history.