PAPERBACK ISBN: 0-88258-246-1      $35.95

448 pages; 6 x 9 inches

Edited by Philip Butcher

Many of the nation’s most celebrated authors and their works are included in the rich literary sampling contained in The Ethnic Image in Modern American Literature, 1900–1950, Volume I. In this volume, editor Philip Butcher primarily addresses the early experiences of the immigrants in their new home and the encounters between Native Americans and the settlers. Major themes examined include the immigrants’ unbridled enthusiasm upon arrival; their mounting uncertainty, which soon yields to disillusionment; their longing for all things dear and familiar in the “old country”; and the renewal of their determination to succeed in America at all costs, including the abandonment of traditional values and practices.  Special emphasis is given to Native Americans and blacks in the sections, “On the Frontier–Cultures in Conflict” and “Noble Savage–Exotic Primitive.” Here, readers see both groups in sometimes cautious, sometimes defiant encounters with American racism. “Servant and Master– The Pecking Order” illuminates the roles assigned to various ethnic groups in early American society. “Ethnic Pride–Ethnic Heroes” presents many proud and uplifting images that suggest the resilience common to all groups struggling, in the face of scorn and ridicule, to participate in the American Dream.

© 1998-2000 Howard University, all rights reserved.  Last updated:26 January 2006.
HOWARD UNIVERSITY PRESS.  2225 Georgia Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20059.  Phone (202) 238-2570
Webmaster: howardupress@howard.edu
Design & Production: Jamie Walker  
DISCLAIMER