Washington Irving, an American study, 1802-1832

"Mr. Hedges sees Irving's work, including his nonsensical humor, as a response to the intellectual and cultural tensions of his period. From this point of view he attempts to explain the apparent contradictions in Irving's writing. There is a close analysis of Irving's major works, including 'Knickerbocker's history, ' 'The sketch book, ' 'Tales of a traveller, ' and 'Columbus.' Mr. Hedges is particularly concerned with the way in which Irving adapted conventional literary techniques and attitudes to the new conditions of American life"--Publisher description.