The Son of Royal Langbrith
A Novel
By W. D. Howells
Author of
Questionable Shapes Letters Home"
Literary Friends and Acquaintances"
"Their Silver Wedding Journey"
Etc. Etc.
New York and London
Harper & Brothers Publishers
1904
CONDITION:
Overall condition is Good. The covers and boards are moderately edgeworn and rubbed. The spine is frayed and rubbed, with worn gilt. The text block features deckle edges. The endpapers bear an inscription.
ATTRIBUTES:
First edition. Hardcover. Bound in cloth.
Page Count: 369
DESCRIPTION:
William Dean Howells's "The Son of Royal Langbrith" delves into themes of inherited reputation, the moral complexities of the past, and the struggle for individual identity within the shadow of a powerful, deceased figure. The novel explores the impact of a seemingly great man's hidden vices on his family and community, particularly his son, who grapples with the idealized image of his father versus the unsettling truths that gradually come to light. Howells, a prominent American novelist and literary critic of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, was a leading figure in the realism movement, known for his nuanced psychological portraits and astute observations of American society.
This work is significant as a testament to Howells's mastery of realistic fiction and his ongoing exploration of ethical dilemmas. It showcases his characteristic blend of social commentary and domestic drama, offering a critical look at the construction of public image and the enduring power of family secrets. Collectors of American literature, particularly those interested in realism and the works of canonical authors, would find this novel compelling due to its insightful character development and its place within Howells's influential body of work, representing a key period in American literary history.
FLASHBACK TO 1904 WHEN THIS BOOK WAS PUBLISHED:
When this book was published in 1904, the Russo-Japanese War raged, marking a pivotal shift in global power dynamics while the Panama Canal's construction began, forever altering international trade routes. The St. Louis World's Fair showcased technological marvels and cultural diversity, and in literature, Anton Chekhov, a towering figure, passed away, leaving behind an indelible legacy.
Location: ABS-1-2