About the book
The publication in 1882 of this classic book by “The Dean of American Letters” marked his transition from magazine editor and author of some mildly received comedies of manners, to leading American novelist and champion of realism in American literature. The story of Bartley Hubbard, a philandering, dishonest Boston journalist, and Marcia Gaylord, the wife who divorces him, is the first serious treatment of divorce in American literature. Although Howells had considered writing the novel for years, the actual composition of it brought forth another theme besides that of divorce—that of new journalism. Yet these two innovative and powerful themes are no more than vehicles for Howells’s real achievement—the perceptive delineation of contemporary American character, conditions in American culture, and the acute dislocations in ethical sensibility that fray the social fabric.
Bartley was still free as air; but if he could once make up his mind to settle down in a hole like Equity he could have her by turning his hand.
Editions of A Modern Instance
- Paperback
- ISBN 9780140390278
Read an Excerpt
The publication in 1882 of this classic book by “The Dean of American Letters” marked his transition from magazine editor and author of some mildly received comedies of manners, to leading American novelist and champion of realism in American literature. The story of Bartley Hubbard, a philandering, dishonest Boston journalist, and Marcia Gaylord, the wife who divorces him, is the first serious treatment of divorce in American literature. Although Howells had considered writing the novel for years, the actual composition of it brought forth another theme besides that of divorce—that of new journalism. Yet these two innovative and powerful themes are no more than vehicles for Howells’s real achievement—the perceptive delineation of contemporary American character, conditions in American culture, and the acute dislocations in ethical sensibility that fray the social fabric.
Bartley was still free as air; but if he could once make up his mind to settle down in a hole like Equity he could have her by turning his hand.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is A Modern Instance about?
The publication in 1882 of this classic book by “The Dean of American Letters” marked his transition from magazine editor and author of some mildly received comedies of manners, to leading American novelist and champion of realism in American literature. The story of Bartley Hubbard, a philandering, dishonest Boston journalist, and Marcia Gaylord, the wife who divorces him, is the first serious treatment of divorce in American literature. Although Howells had considered writing the novel for years, the actual composition of it brought forth another theme besides that of divorce—that of new journalism. Yet these two innovative and powerful themes are no more than vehicles for Howells’s real achievement—the perceptive delineation of contemporary American character, conditions in American culture, and the acute dislocations in ethical sensibility that fray the social fabric.
Bartley was still free as air; but if he could once make up his mind to settle down in a hole like Equity he could have her by turning his hand.
What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in A Modern Instance?
Fiction > Fiction: literary and general non-genre
Where can I read a sample of A Modern Instance?
You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9780140390278
Who is/are the Author/s of the book A Modern Instance?
William Dean Howells
What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?
A Modern Instance is available as paperback(ISBN 9780140390278)
Where can I buy A Modern Instance online or support local independent bookshops?
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Where can I buy A Modern Instance?