How is a classic book to be defined? How much time must elapse before a work may be judged a “classic”? And among all the works of American literature, whic

This collection of essays describes the genesis of ten classic works of American literature. Using biographical, cultural, and manuscript evidence, the contribu

In Howells' maybe the most famous novel, The Rise of Silas Lapham, the story follows the materialistic rise of Silas Lapham from rags to riches, and his ensuing

Featuring an appendix of discussion questions, the Diversion Classics edition is ideal for use in book groups and classrooms. In this collection of classics, fi