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A review by hellisaurusrex
The Civil Wars of Julia Ward Howe: A Biography by Elaine Showalter
4.0
"The Civil Wars of Julia Ward Howe" is an illuminating picture into the life of a prominent American woman. Her experiences and accomplishments are so vast, it seems that her story could span volumes. However, Elaine Showalter does some justice to her story within the pages of this biography. However, it is not as one might expect. This kind of figure in history, known for her activism and writings, usually has a biography that highlights these positive facets of character and person. However, throughout the text, one finds Julia Ward Howe to be spoiled, narcissistic, problematic, and in many ways, down-right unlikable. Though we do often still feel sorry for her situation, this sympathy does not eclipse the unsavory aspects, though. This is not much a comment on the writing, but rather on the expectations of such a book. Rather, it's refreshing to have a realistic portrayal of such an influential figure in American history.
One final note: Showalter, while an excellent writer, does show her hand as a English professor (I speak as one also in the field). This is not a detriment, but it does narrow her audience a bit, as she often discusses things through a lens of gender and sexuality theories, and also mentions many figures in assumption her readers will know exactly who she speaks of. Of the former, this isn't an issue, but can make it a little odd for someone not familiar with such a reading of both life and text. In regards to the latter, this does cause a bit of a problem, as it becomes annoying to continually have to do extra research to become familiar with some of the figures she mentions and assumes her readers already knows about.
All in all, an excellent, informative read. I'd recommend to anyone interested in American history, women's history, and/or American literature.
One final note: Showalter, while an excellent writer, does show her hand as a English professor (I speak as one also in the field). This is not a detriment, but it does narrow her audience a bit, as she often discusses things through a lens of gender and sexuality theories, and also mentions many figures in assumption her readers will know exactly who she speaks of. Of the former, this isn't an issue, but can make it a little odd for someone not familiar with such a reading of both life and text. In regards to the latter, this does cause a bit of a problem, as it becomes annoying to continually have to do extra research to become familiar with some of the figures she mentions and assumes her readers already knows about.
All in all, an excellent, informative read. I'd recommend to anyone interested in American history, women's history, and/or American literature.