This collection examines the literary contributions of William Dean Howells during a pivotal period of American literature. The essays explore Howells's role as a critic, novelist, and influential figure in shaping literary tastes and movements from 1866 to 1920, a time marked by significant social and artistic change in the United States. The volume analyzes his engagement with realism, his critical theories, and his impact on subsequent generations of writers.

This collection of critical essays offers a scholarly examination of William Dean Howells's significant literary output and influence during a formative era of American letters. The essays are likely to appeal to academics and students of American literature, providing in-depth analysis of Howells's critical theories and his contributions to the realist movement. The focus on the period between 1866 and 1920 suggests a comprehensive look at his career during its most impactful years. The collection aims to situate Howells within his historical and literary context, highlighting his enduring legacy.