Student companions to classic writers

Describes the life of nineteenth-century American author Mark Twain and examines the plots, character development, thematic concerns, and historical backgrounds of several of his short stories and sketches, travel narratives, and novels. Also includes a selected bibliography.

An introduction to the writings of Nathaniel Hawthorne that is intended for high school students and general readers, features biographical information, discussion of his contributions to American literature, and analysis of his major themes, ideas, and characters.

A discussion of twentieth-century southern American playwright Tennessee Williams's life, career, influences, and works, including in-depth analyses of seven of his plays and information drawn from several primary documents such as letters and unpublished plays.

Provides overviews of early twentieth-century American author F. Scott Fitzgerald's life and literary career, as well as profiles of his five novels that cover their plots, characters, critical reception, themes, symbolism, and theoretical interpretations; also includes a selected bibliography.

Presents critical analyses of each of George Orwell's major writings, presented in chronological order; and includes biographical information about the author.

A critical introduction to twentieth-century American playwright Arthur Miller that discusses his experiences involving the Great Depression, the Holocaust, the House Un-American Activities Committee, Marilyn Monroe, and other aspects of his life, in connection with the social and moral themes of eight of his major plays.

Describes American author John Steinbeck's life and career, and profiles his major novels and short stories.

Discusses twentieth-century African-American author Richard Wright's life and provides critical studies of his major novels, short story collections, and autobiography.

Offers critical analysis of the major writings of Elie Wiesel, providing information on plot, character development, thematic concerns, style, and historical context.

Discusses nineteenth-century English author Jane Austen's life and provides critical studies of her six novels.