Columbia University Studies in English and Comparative Literature

'Columbia University Studies in English and Comparative Literature' offers a comprehensive scholarly examination of the life and literary legacy of James Kirke Paulding, a pivotal figure in the early development of American letters. As a close associate of Washington Irving and a member of the influential Knickerbocker group, Paulding played a crucial role in crafting a distinctively American voice during the 19th century. This volume delves into his diverse body of work, ranging from satirical essays and poetry to novels that explored the burgeoning identity of the United States. The text provides a deep analysis of Paulding’s dual life as a man of letters and a public servant, including his tenure as Secretary of the Navy. It situates his writing within the broader context of the American literary movement, highlighting his commitment to realistic portrayals of American life and his resistance to European cultural dominance. Scholars and enthusiasts of American history and literature will find this study invaluable for its insights into the social, political, and intellectual currents of the era. Through a detailed exploration of Paulding’s themes and style, this work illuminates the foundational years of the American literary tradition.This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you may see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work.This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.