Essay Serials in America

FAIN: FT-12588-75

Bruce Granger
University of Oklahoma, Norman (Norman, OK 73019-3003)

To complete a book on Essay Serials in America from Franklin to Irving. Following the tradition established by Addison and Steele's serial publications, The Tatler and The Spectator, Benjamin Franklin began the tradition in America with his Dogood Papers (1722), and Washington Irving ended it with Salmagundi (1807-1808). Between 1722-1808 American newspapers and magazines carried more than 50 essay serials, some written anonymously, others by major writers. Among important literary genres in colonial America none has been so neglected as the periodical essay.