The Sleeping-Car: A Farce (eBook)

In 'The Sleeping-Car: A Farce', William Dean Howells delivers a concise yet engaging narrative that encapsulates the humor and social etiquette of its era through the lens of comedic mishap. Utilizing the confined and transitory space of a train's sleeping car as his stage, Howells crafts a farcical tableau that both amuses and critiques the social mores of his day. With its quick-witted dialogue and vivid illustration of character interactions, the farce becomes an adept exploration of human folly and pretense. Howells' literary style, a blend of realism and comedic satire, situates this work within the broader context of American literary naturalism, while offering a lighter reprieve from the earnest critical narratives he is commonly associated with.
William Dean Howells, often referred to as the 'Dean of American Letters,' was an influential figure in American literature and criticism during the late 19th century. His personal experiences and profound understanding of American society during the Gilded Age led him to espouse realism in his writings. This work, 'The Sleeping-Car,' while adopting a more humorous tone, still reveals the class disparities and social dynamics that Howells frequently addressed in his more serious literary endeavors. His deft combination of humor with societal insights reflects a versatile author attuned to the subtleties of his cultural milieu.
'The Sleeping-Car: A Farce' is recommended for readers who appreciate the intricacies of classic American humor and social commentary. Howells' masterful manipulation of the farce form to both entertain and provoke thought ensures that the piece remains an enlightening diversion. Academics and casual readers alike will find value in the narrative's concise articulation of human character and social interaction. For fans and scholars of Howells and those interested in the literary evolution of American realism and comedy, this work is an indispensable addition to any collection.