Oliver Goldfinch; or, The Hypocrite (eBook)

Emerson Bennett (1812-1902), noted for his contribution to American literature during the 19th century, stood as a prominent figure in the dime novel and story paper era. Bennett's literary style often fused elements of romance with adventure, resonating with the tastes of a readership eager for escapism during a time of national expansion and uncertainty. Though not as widely recognized as his contemporaries, Bennett's work provides valuable insight into the social and cultural norms of his time. 'Oliver Goldfinch; or, The Hypocrite' stands out among his repertoire as a novel that explores themes of morality and deceit, indicative of Bennett's preoccupation with the human condition and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals in society. His works, while not enduring as classics in the canons of American literature, are studied for their reflection of the genres popular in his lifetime and their depiction of 19th-century American values. Bennett's other notable contributions include 'The Prairie Flower,' 'Mike Fink: A Legend of the Ohio,' and 'The Border Rover,' all of which further cement his legacy as a writer who captured the imagination of readers with tales of frontier life and action-packed narratives.