Literary Research and the American Realism and Naturalism Period Strategies and Sources

"The American Realism and Naturalism literary period lasted from roughly 1861 to 1914. It was characterized by its response to the political, economic, and technological changes that transformed the nation during the Civil War and postbellum years. Some of the most well-known authors in American history wrote during this time, including Mark Twain, Henry James, Edith Wharton, Charles W. Chesnutt, and Upton Sinclair." "Literary Research and the American Realism and Naturalism Period: Strategies and Sources will help those interested in researching this era. Authors Linda L. Stein and Peter J. Lehu emphasize research methodology and outline the best practices for the research process, paying attention to the unique challenges inherent in conducting studies of national literature. Each chapter covers a different type of resource. The book offers a coherent account of how contemporary research skills and resources can complement one another in helping scholars effectively deal with typical challenges they encounter in their work."--BOOK JACKET.

Peter J. Lehu is reference librarian at the Parkway Central Library of the Free Library of Philadelphia. Linda L. Stein is associate librarian in the Reference Department of the University of Delaware Library.