Robert S. Levine Livres

The narrative explores Andrew Johnson's presidency following Lincoln's assassination during a pivotal time in American history. Initially perceived as a progressive leader by the Black community, Johnson's early promises sparked hope for significant federal policies promoting Black equality. However, as his administration unfolded, Frederick Douglass, a key figure in the fight for Black rights, became disenchanted with Johnson's actions, leading to growing skepticism about the president's true commitment to supporting Black citizenship and rights.

The book reexamines American literary nationalism, traditionally viewed as a unified tradition, by highlighting the complexities and conflicts within late eighteenth- and nineteenth-century literature. Robert S. Levine emphasizes the multiracial and contingent aspects of works by American and African American writers, arguing that conflict and uncertainty, rather than consensus, were pivotal in shaping the identity of American literary nationalism during this era.

The book provides a historical analysis of the American romance genre, highlighting its significance to American culture from the founding of the republic through the Civil War. Robert Levine presents a fresh perspective, revealing how romance literature shaped societal values and reflected the evolving identity of the nation during this transformative period.

This edition of Clotel includes key texts and cultural documents that influenced Brown's writing. The streamlined second edition offers an updated introduction and emphasizes documents related to slavery and race.

The book delves into the complex relationship between Frederick Douglass and Martin Delany, challenging the oversimplified view of their differing ideologies as merely assimilationist versus separatist. Robert S. Levine examines their debates on abolitionism, emigration, and nationalism, highlighting how they influenced each other's political visions. By contextualizing their discussions alongside the writings of Harriet Beecher Stowe, Levine aims to restore Delany's significance in literary history, offering a deeper understanding of antebellum African American leadership dynamics.

Exploring race and transnationalism, this work provides innovative insights into nineteenth-century American literature. It examines how these themes intersect within the literary landscape of the time, challenging traditional narratives and offering a deeper understanding of cultural dynamics. Through critical analysis, the book illuminates the complexities of identity and representation, making it a significant contribution to literary studies.