Subject
Authors, American -- 19th century -- Biography Books
Best books
Henry David Thoreau
Walden, and On The Duty Of Civil Disobedience
"Walden, and On The Duty Of Civil Disobedience" by Henry David Thoreau is a philosophical essay and social critique written in the mid-19th century. This work reflects Thoreau's reflections on simple living in natural surroundings, drawing from his personal experiment of living alone in the woods near Walden Pond. Thoreau emphasizes themes of self-sufficiency, the critique of materialism, and the importance of individual conscience and civil disobedience in the face of unjust laws. The opening of "Walden" begins with Thoreau recounting his two years of solitude in a self-built house by Walden Pond, where he lived simply and engaged in manual labor. He addresses the curiosity of his townsfolk about his lifestyle choices and presents his views on the societal pressures that guide people into lives of "quiet desperation." Through vivid imagery and philosophical musings, Thoreau discusses the burdens of inherited possessions and societal expectations, asserting that many people live unexamined lives. He calls for a re-evaluation of what is considered necessary for a fulfilling life, suggesting that true happiness derives from simplicity, individual thought, and an intimate connection with nature.
Mark Twain
Life on the Mississippi
"Life on the Mississippi" by Mark Twain is a memoir and travel book published in 1883. It recounts Twain's experiences as a young steamboat pilot's apprentice on the Mississippi River before the Civil War, detailing the art of navigating the ever-changing waters. The second half chronicles his return journey decades later, observing how railroads, growing cities, and time have transformed the river and its culture. Blending personal history with tall tales and social commentary, Twain captures a vanishing era of American river life.
Horace Elisha Scudder
James Russell Lowell, A Biography; vol 2/2
"James Russell Lowell, A Biography; vol 2/2" by Horace Elisha Scudder is a biographical account written in the early 20th century. This work explores the life and contributions of James Russell Lowell, focusing on various critical periods of his life, including his engagement in political discourse and his literary career. The biography covers Lowell's role during the Civil War, his editorial work for the Atlantic Monthly, and his political opinions, providing insight into his impact on American literature and thought, particularly surrounding issues like democracy and slavery. The opening of the biography sets the stage for a detailed examination of Lowell's engagement with the political landscape of his time, particularly during the Civil War. It discusses the establishment of the Atlantic Monthly, highlighting its intention to be a platform for both art and politics under Lowell's leadership. The author outlines how this magazine became a crucial medium for discussions about pressing national issues, including the moral and political implications of slavery. The text reflects on Lowell's fervent convictions regarding freedom and democracy, emphasizing the ethical considerations that guided his views as the nation faced tumultuous times.
Charles Godfrey Leland
Memoirs
"Memoirs" by Charles Godfrey Leland is an autobiographical account written in the late 19th century. The book reflects on Leland's life experiences and memories, including his family background, childhood in Philadelphia, and his interactions with prominent figures of his time. The author aims to provide an intimate glimpse into his personal development and the society he lived in, showcasing a mix of historical events and personal anecdotes. At the start of the memoir, Leland explains the context of his writing and outlines his intent to capture the essence of his life experiences accurately. He recalls his birthplace and early life in Philadelphia, enriched by engaging experiences with influential figures like General Lafayette and memories tied to familial connections from the Revolutionary War. The narrative evolves through his various educational experiences, the cultural milieu of Philadelphia, and influences from both his parents and noteworthy personalities surrounding him. Leland's vivid recollections and reflections set the stage for a deeper exploration of his journey throughout the memoir.
Albert Bigelow Paine
Mark Twain: A Biography. Complete
"Mark Twain: A Biography" by Albert Bigelow Paine is a comprehensive biographical account written during the late 19th century. The work delves into the personal and literary life of Samuel Langhorne Clemens, better known as Mark Twain, a central figure in American literature. The book spans from Twain's early years and ancestors, giving a glimpse into the formative experiences that shaped his character and works, revealing the complexities of his family, childhood, and the socio-cultural backdrop of his upbringing. The beginning of this biography sets the stage by introducing Twain's lineage, starting with his paternal grandfather and the challenges faced by his father, John Marshall Clemens. It highlights the family's precarious financial situation and their repeated migrations, culminating in their settlement in Florida, Missouri, where Twain was born. Additionally, the opening chapters explore the nuances of Twain's childhood and the array of influences—both nurturing and harsh—that contributed to his development, emphasizing themes such as aspiration, hardship, and the compelling essence of human experience. Through reflections on the early Clemens family dynamics and the environments that populated his youth, the biography lays the groundwork for understanding the literary genius that would emerge in Twain’s later writings.
Elizabeth Bisland
The Life and Letters of Lafcadio Hearn, Volume 2
"The Life and Letters of Lafcadio Hearn, Volume 2" by Elizabeth Bisland is a collection of correspondence written in the early 20th century. This volume delves into the experiences and reflections of Lafcadio Hearn, a notable writer and translator renowned for his writings on Japan. The letters provide insight into his life, thoughts on Japanese culture, and his deep admiration for the country and its people. At the start of the volume, the reader is introduced to Hearn's expressive and passionate writing style through various letters addressed to friends and colleagues. He shares his feelings about Japan's beauty and cultural nuances, discussing the spirituality of its nature and simplicity of its people. Hearn confides his struggles with finding employment, his dedication to studying Buddhism, and his deep desire to immerse himself in Japanese life through teaching and cultural exploration. Together, these letters reveal both his personal challenges and his heartfelt connection to Japan, setting the tone for a rich exploration of his literary journey.
Louisa May Alcott
Louisa May Alcott : Her Life, Letters, and Journals
"Louisa May Alcott: Her Life, Letters, and Journals" by Louisa May Alcott is a biographical memoir compiled in the late 19th century. The work offers an intimate look at Alcott's life through personal letters, journals, and edited contributions from those close to her, revealing the experiences that shaped her as a writer and a person. It delves into her early years, family background, and the sentiments that inspired her acclaimed literary works, drawing connections between her life and her storytelling. At the start of this memoir, the reader is introduced to Alcott's genealogy and early life, framed within affectionate reflections from her parents that highlight her upbringing in a close-knit family invested in intellectual and moral pursuits. The narrative portrays Louisa as an inquisitive and imaginative child, keen on education yet often grappling with the expectations placed upon her. The memoir includes early anecdotes from her childhood, revealing her natural prowess for storytelling and her blossoming awareness of the world around her, setting the stage for a deeper understanding of her later literary endeavors.
Marion Harland
Marion Harland's Autobiography: The Story of a Long Life
"Marion Harland's Autobiography: The Story of a Long Life" by Marion Harland is a personal memoir written in the early 20th century. This work captures the intricate tapestry of the author’s life, weaving together her experiences that span the Old South and the reformation through the Civil War. It reflects on her upbringing, family lineage, personal relationships, and the societal changes she witnessed over the decades. At the start of the autobiography, Harland introduces herself and her family background, detailing her ancestors and the historical context of her family's roots in America. She recalls her father's beginnings and her mother's genteel lineage while providing vivid anecdotes, such as her father's Revolutionary War service. The opening chapters create a foundation of warmth, nostalgia, and nostalgia for a bygone era, as Harland's storytelling reveals the depth of her connections with familial and historical legacies, setting a personal tone for the narrative that will unfold.
Laura Elizabeth Howe Richards
Julia Ward Howe, 1819-1910
"Julia Ward Howe, 1819-1910" by Laura E. Richards, Maud Howe Elliott, and Florence Howe Hall is a biographical account written in the early 20th century. This work chronicles the life of Julia Ward Howe, a prominent figure in American history known for her contributions as a poet, abolitionist, and women's rights advocate. The narrative likely delves into her personal life, her influential family background, and her impactful public endeavors. The opening of the book introduces us to Howe's reverent ties to her ancestry, with significant attention given to her forebears, tracing back to notable historical figures such as her grandfather, Colonel Samuel Ward, who played a crucial role during the American Revolutionary War. The authors capture Howe’s formative years, depicting her early influences, family dynamics, and the traits inherited from her ancestors that shaped her character. Through rich anecdotes, the text paints a picture of her upbringing amidst historical dramas and the strong moral fabric of her family, laying the groundwork for an understanding of how her past informed her future endeavors as a writer and reformer.
Harriet Beecher Stowe
Life of Harriet Beecher Stowe Compiled From Her Letters and Journals by Her Son Charles Edward Stowe
"Life of Harriet Beecher Stowe" by Harriet Beecher Stowe is a biographical account compiled from her letters and journals, written in the late 19th century. This work offers an intimate look at the life of one of America's most prominent literary figures and an ardent abolitionist, following her journey from childhood through significant life experiences, including her family dynamics and early literary endeavors. The opening of the biography sets the stage for Harriet Beecher Stowe's early life, detailing her childhood in Litchfield, Connecticut. It introduces us to her family background, including the profound impact of her mother's death when Harriet was just four years old. Through her reflections, we see young Harriet grappling with grief, familial love, and the formative influences of her relatives, notably her father, Dr. Lyman Beecher, a prominent minister. The narrative captures her early education, literary interests, and the burgeoning aspirations that would eventually lead her to become a celebrated author. This section effectively establishes the groundwork for understanding the values and experiences that shaped Stowe's influential career.
Henry David Thoreau
The Maine Woods The Writings of Henry David Thoreau, Volume 03 (of 20)
"The Maine Woods" by Henry David Thoreau is a collection of essays written in the mid-19th century that explores the author's observations and experiences during his excursions in the wilderness of Maine. In this work, Thoreau captures his profound appreciation for nature and delves into the relationships between humans and the wild, particularly focusing on the beauty and solitude found in places like Mount Ktaadn and the surrounding forests. The opening of the book details Thoreau's journey as he travels from Concord, Massachusetts, to the Maine wilderness. He embarks on this adventure to explore the area around Mount Ktaadn and to immerse himself in the natural landscape, while also reflecting on the interconnectedness of man and nature. Thoreau introduces various aspects of the journey, from the practicalities of travel to interactions with local inhabitants, including a guide named Louis Neptune, illustrating his keen observations on the remnants of Native American culture and the encroachment of modern society on these primeval lands. Overall, these early chapters set the stage for a deep contemplation of wilderness and the philosophical insights that arise from living closely with nature.
Mark Twain
Chapters from My Autobiography
"Chapters from My Autobiography" by Mark Twain is a collection of autobiographical pieces published between 1906 and 1907. Rather than following a traditional structure, Twain presents rambling anecdotes and reflections on his life, family, and career. He shares memories of his early publishing experiences, pays tribute to his beloved wife and daughter Susy, and explores his siblings' lives. Much of the work was dictated, creating an intimate, conversational tone that captures Twain's distinctive voice and personality.
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