Salem Is My Dwelling Place: Life Of Nathaniel Hawthorne

by Edwin Haviland Miller

Book Overview

In one of his public disavowals of autobiography, Nathaniel Hawthorne informed his readers that external traits "hide the man, instead of displaying him," directing them instead to "look through the... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0877453322
• Release Date: November 1991
• Publisher: University Of Iowa Press
• Length: 648 Pages
• Weight: 2.65 lbs.
• Dimensions: 9.5" x 1.8" x 6.0"

Customer Reviews

Thorough, but hard to navigate

There is no doubt that this is one of the most thoroughly-researched and extensive biographies you will find on Hawthorne - a man who is surprisingly deeper than many might imagine. Miller is able to take the reader through Hawthorne's youth, through his political appointments, and into his literature. He delves into Hawthorne's relationship with his family, particularly his mother's side and gives deliciously in-depth discussions on the literature in particular. However, the book is heavily convoluted and hard to navigate, oftentimes back-tracking on itself or flashing forward; I got a little dizzy here and there. There are a few digressions that seem to lack direct relevance to the main story Miller is trying to tell. But, admittedly, if you are looking for a deep yet broad study of Hawthorne's works, this is it. Miller gives the story of the stories, from conception to publication to reaction. The discussion on "The Scarlet Letter" in particular is, appropriately, a very long one.

A must read! I couldn't put it down!

Thoroughly researched, engagingly written biography. This book is a must for all who love Hawthorne's stories and novels! At 527 pages it may seem a little daunting, but I couldn't put it down! Thank you Edwin Haviland Miller.