Washington Irving

The "First American Man of Letters"

• Life: Washington Irving (1783-1859) was a prominent American author in the early 19th century. He's often referred to as the "first American man of letters" for his significant contributions to American literature.

• Literary Works: Irving is a versatile writer, known for various genres:

  • Short Stories: His most famous works are arguably the short stories "Rip Van Winkle" and "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow," known for their whimsical charm and spooky atmosphere. These were part of his collection "The Sketch Book of Geoffrey Crayon, Gent."
  • Biographies: Irving also wrote biographies, including a multi-volume work on George Washington, showcasing his historical expertise alongside engaging writing style.
  • History: He wasn't limited to biographies. Irving explored historical themes in works like "A History of New York," which playfully blended fact and fiction.
  • Essays: Irving was also an essayist, writing under pen names like Jonathan Oldstyle.

• Style and Legacy: Irving's work is known for its:

  • Wit and Humor: He injects humor and satire into his writing, making it entertaining and engaging.
  • Romanticism: Irving's writing reflects the Romantic movement, with a focus on folklore, imagination, and the beauty of the natural world.
  • Celebration of American Identity: Irving's focus on American history and folklore helped shape a distinct American literary voice.

• Beyond Literature: Irving wasn't just a writer. He also served as the American ambassador to Spain in the 1840s and advocated for stronger copyright laws for authors.

• Fun Fact: Irving even had pen names! Some of his works were credited to "Geoffrey Crayon, Gent." or "Diedrich Knickerbocker."