Description: This work reveals the myths of New York and the various, often paradoxical ways that authors have portrayed New York City. Part One examines New York from the perspectives of authors of a New York aristocracy (e.g. Henry James and Edith Wharton), immigrants (e.g. Mario Puzo), African Americans (e.g. Ralph Ellison), and Jews (e.g. Daniel Fuchs). Part Two studies variations and themes of New York mythology in the works of Stephen Crane, Tom Wolfe, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and Theodore Dreiser, among others. Part Three covers New York in theatre, including works from Eugene ONeill and Arthur Miller.
Brief description: Edward Margolies is professor emeritus of the City University of New York. The author of numerous books about American literary history and culture, he lives in New York.
Review Quotes: "Margolies writes in a clear and conversational style, and he is especially adroit with biographical sketches and big-picture appraisals of literary trends... the sheer scope of Margolies's knowledge is undeniable"--South Atlantic Review.