The Sleeping-Car: A Farce (ePub)

William Dean Howells (1837-1920) was a prominent figure in American literature, often acknowledged as the 'Dean of American Letters' during his lifetime. He carved his niche in the realist movement, forsaking the romanticized fiction of his time in favor of a closer examination of American life. Howells' literary career spanned multiple genres, including novels, short stories, plays, and farces. Among his works is 'The Sleeping-Car: A Farce,' which reflects his wit and his eye for social nuances. His farces often employed humor to critique social norms and behaviors, a testament to his keen observation and progressive beliefs. Howells was not merely a writer but also a literary critic, and served as the editor of the influential 'The Atlantic Monthly' for a decade. His literary style was marked by a focus on ethical issues, realism, and character development over plot, setting him apart from contemporaries. His works like 'A Modern Instance' and 'The Rise of Silas Lapham' are considered benchmarks of realism in American literature and continue to be studied for their portrayal of American society and culture in a pivotal era. Howells was an advocate for social justice and a mentor to many younger writers, including Mark Twain and Henry James, further cementing his legacy in the annals of American literary history.