“The Minister's Charge, Or, The Apprenticeship of Lemuel Barker” by William Dean Howells is a coming-of-age novel that follows the journey of Lemuel Barker, a young man from a rural background, as he transitions to urban life in 19th-century Boston. The story delves into themes of social class, ambition, and morality, providing a realistic portrayal of American society during this period. Lemuel, driven by a desire for personal growth and education, leaves his rural home and arrives in Boston, where he faces numerous challenges and hardships. The novel chronicles his efforts to navigate the complexities of urban life and his quest to find his identity. Central to his journey is his relationship with Reverend Sewell, a mentor who guides him through his apprenticeship. As Lemuel's experiences in Boston shape his understanding of himself and the world around him, “The Minister's Charge” offers a nuanced examination of the individual's struggle for personal and social betterment within the broader context of 19th-century American society. Howells' realistic narrative style and keen insights into human nature make this novel a compelling exploration of ambition, mentorship, and the quest for identity.
William Dean Howells (1837-1920) was an American novelist, literary critic, and editor who played a significant role in the development of American literature in the late 19th century. He was born in Ohio and worked as a printer's apprentice before becoming a journalist and eventually a fiction writer. Howells' most famous novels include “The Rise of Silas Lapham,” “A Hazard of New Fortunes,” and “The Minister's Charge.” He was also an influential literary critic and editor, serving as the editor of The Atlantic Monthly from 1871 to 1881 and advocating for realism in literature. Howells was a friend and mentor to many writers of his time, including Mark Twain and Henry James. He also played an important role in promoting the works of African American writers, such as Paul Laurence Dunbar. Throughout his career, Howells was known for his social commentary and his concern for social justice. He was a strong advocate for women's rights and was active in the abolitionist movement before the Civil War. Overall, William Dean Howells was a key figure in the development of American literature in the late 19th century, and his contributions as a novelist, critic, and editor continue to be studied and appreciated today.
