This collection investigates the complex and often contradictory nature of the relationship between Britain and America from the mid-19th to the mid-20th century. The essays explore literary and cultural connections, examining how figures like Gertrude Stein, Alfred North Whitehead, Henry James, and George Eliot shaped and were shaped by transatlantic dialogues. The book delves into specific historical and social contexts, including Scottish-American literary relations, the influence of Spiritualism, and American perspectives on British social issues, revealing a dynamic interplay of affinity and antagonism across this pivotal period.

This collection is likely to be of interest to scholars and students of literary history and transatlantic studies. The diverse range of authors and topics suggests a comprehensive approach to understanding the intricate cultural and intellectual exchanges between Britain and America during a formative era. The inclusion of specific historical interventions, such as those concerning the Highland clearances and American slavery, indicates a commitment to contextualizing literary relations within broader social and political landscapes. The essays' focus on both affinities and antagonisms promises a nuanced exploration of this enduring special relationship.