The Kentons

William Howells was an American realist author and literary critic. In 1904 he was one of the first seven members chosen for the American Academy of Arts and Letters. Howells wrote plays, criticism, and essays about contemporary literary figures such as Ibsen, Zola, Verga, and, Tolstoy. These writings helped to establish their reputations in the United States. Perhaps his greatest influence came from his writing critically in support of many American writers. The Kentons lived a simple life in a country town in the middle of the country. When their daughter Ellen has a love affair it effects all of them. Ellen falls in love with a man who abuses her and tries to take advantage of her family. Her parents take her to Europe to get away from the situation and there she meets a man who truly loves her.