The Atlantic Monthly, Volume 17, No. 102, April, 1866 / A Magazine of Literature, Science, Art, and Politics

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

21408

Title

The Atlantic Monthly, Volume 17, No. 102, April, 1866 / A Magazine of Literature, Science, Art, and Politics

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

This 1866 issue of The Atlantic Monthly offers a rich tapestry of literature, science, art, and politics. It features a poignant tribute to the dying Walter Savage Landor, practical essays on single women's housing struggles, and vivid reviews of major Romantic-era painters like Turner and Constable. With diverse voices and timeless themes, it appeals to readers seeking historical insight and literary depth.

Summary up to 500 words

Published in April 1866, Volume 17, No. 102 of The Atlantic Monthly offers a rich tapestry of literature, art criticism, and social commentary reflecting the intellectual spirit of the mid-19th century. The volume's centerpiece is a poignant biography titled 'Last Days of Walter Savage Landor,' written by an American friend. This reflective piece chronicles Landor's final years in Florence, portraying him as a man of complex genius and chivalrous nature despite a fiery temper. The author details Landor's deep affection for his beloved Pomeranian dog, Gaillo, and his noble character, which shone through even in his irascible moods. The essay challenges the tendency to judge great men by their flaws, arguing that genius often coexists with human frailty and that true appreciation requires looking beyond the 'glass house' of public scrutiny. Another significant contribution is 'A Struggle for Shelter,' a witty and poignant essay by a single woman navigating the difficulties of finding housing in Washington, D.C. The author vividly describes the discrimination faced by unmarried women in boarding houses, where terms were exorbitant or rooms were reserved exclusively for men. In response to this 'dilemma,' she imagines a visionary solution: converting a tiny, six-by-thirteen-foot room into a multi-functional home. Through imaginative interior design, she transforms the space into a complete living environment, complete with a wardrobe, library, dining area, and drawing room, effectively turning a cramped attic into a self-sufficient castle. This narrative blends humor with social critique, highlighting the resilience required of women in a restrictive society. The issue also features diverse fiction and non-fiction, including 'Were They Crickets?' which tells the story of a Syrian merchant and his daughter Irené, and 'The Late Insurrection in Jamaica.' The literary reviews section provides a critical analysis of major artists, praising Sir Joshua Reynolds for his prolific career and social grace. The review contrasts Reynolds's approach with those of Turner and Constable, noting Turner's intense use of color versus Constable's liquid gold and silver palette. Furthermore, the volume honors the memory of the artist Haydon and the playwright Tom Taylor, celebrating their contributions to art and drama. Collectively, these pieces capture a moment of cultural transition, blending personal narrative with sharp critical analysis of art, politics, and the human condition.

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4.2/5

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• Periodicals