English: Composition and Literature

by W. F. (William Franklin) Webster

"English: Composition and Literature" by W. F. Webster is a textbook on writing and literary comprehension written in the late 19th century. The book focuses on teaching high school students the principles of effective communication, emphasizing the importance of expressing ideas clearly and engagingly. It outlines various forms of discourse, including narration, description, exposition, argument, and persuasion, and provides guidance on how to choose subjects, structure narratives, and utilize language effectively. The opening of this textbook introduces the author's intention behind writing it, highlighting the need for a methodical approach to teaching English composition. Webster explains the differences between composition and subjects like Latin or mathematics, arguing for the necessity of engaging students' intellectual and emotional aspects in their writing. He sets the stage for exploring various forms of discourse, framing the objective of the book as a means to develop students' skills in expressing their thoughts and feelings through structured, coherent writing. This foundational perspective sets the tone for the practical guidance that follows in subsequent chapters.