Classical Tradition in Modern American Fiction

This book is a valuable survey of the allusions to ancient Greek and Roman culture in the work of seven major modern American novelists.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 31 January 2021
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

This book is a comprehensive exploration of the rich tapestry of allusions to ancient Greek and Roman culture woven throughout the works of seven prominent modern American novelists: Willa Cather, F. Scott Fitzgerald, William Faulkner, Ralph Ellison, Toni Morrison, Philip Roth, and Marilynne Robinson.

Willa Cather, known for her poignant portrayal of the American Midwest, incorporated references to classical Greek and Roman mythology and philosophy into her novels, such as "My Antonia" and "The Professor's House." Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby" is a quintessential American novel that draws upon the myth of the Golden Age and the Roman concept of the American Dream. Faulkner's "The Sound and the Fury" is a masterpiece of Southern Gothic literature that explores the complexities of race and identity through the lens of ancient Greek tragedy.

Ralph Ellison's "Invisible Man" is a groundbreaking work of African American literature that examines the experiences of marginalized individuals through the lens of classical Greek philosophy and mythology. Toni Morrison's "Beloved" is a powerful exploration of slavery and its aftermath, drawing upon the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice and the Roman concept of the afterlife. Philip Roth's "The Plot Against America" is a dystopian novel that imagines a fascist government in the United States, drawing upon the myth of the Trojan War and the Roman concept of imperialism.

Marilynne Robinson's "Gilead" is a Pulitzer Prize-winning novel that tells the story of a preacher's daughter in the American Midwest during the Civil War, exploring themes of religion, family, and the legacy of slavery. These novelists have skillfully incorporated references to ancient Greek and Roman culture into their works, creating a rich and layered narrative that reflects the complexities of modern American society.

In conclusion, this book is a valuable resource for scholars and readers interested in exploring the interconnections between ancient Greek and Roman culture and modern American literature. By examining the allusions made by these seven novelists, we gain a deeper understanding of the historical and cultural contexts that shaped their works and the enduring themes that resonate with readers today.

Weight: 386g
Dimension: 137 x 217 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474434034