Wonder Book & Tanglewood Tales (ePub)

Nathaniel Hawthorne (1804-1864) was an American novelist and short story writer who left an indelible mark on the literary world. Born in Salem, Massachusetts, Hawthorne's ancestral connection to the Puritanical history of the town, including a judge in the Salem witch trials, profoundly influenced his thematic exploration of sin, retribution, and psychological complexity in his works. He graduated from Bowdoin College in 1825, where he began to develop his craft in writing. Hawthorne's writing style is characterized by the use of allegory and symbolism, often examining moral conflicts and the dark side of human nature. While he penned many works, 'The Scarlet Letter' stands as a monumental contribution to American literature, showcasing his ability to navigate the human psyche within a Puritan setting. Another significant contribution is 'The House of the Seven Gables,' a story that blends historical and gothic elements, exemplifying Hawthorne's talent for creating atmospherically rich narratives. His lesser-known, but equally enchanting, works 'Wonder Book & Tanglewood Tales' are refashioned tales from classical mythology, designed to bring these stories to the enjoyment of a young audience. In these collections, he employs a conversational style that diverges from his typically denser prose, a testament to his versatility as a writer. Hawthorne's literary legacy is characterized by his exploration of the intricate contradictions of the human spirit, rendered in prose that is both eloquent and evocative, securing his place as a central figure in the development of American literature.