William Dean Howells 
A Traveler from Altruria & Through the Eye of the Needle 

William Dean Howells’ novel ‘A Traveler from Altruria & Through the Eye of the Needle’ is a captivating and thought-provoking work that blends elements of utopian fiction and social criticism. Through the experiences of the Altrurian visitor and the societal structures he encounters in America, Howells offers a critique of capitalist society and explores the potential for a more egalitarian and communal way of living. The narrative style is rich in detail and dialogue, engaging readers in a vivid exploration of contrasting societal values and practices. Howells’ contribution to American literature is evident in his ability to use fiction as a tool for questioning the status quo and envisioning alternative futures. This book is a compelling read for those interested in utopian literature and social justice themes. It serves as a relevant commentary on the complexities of modern society and the possibilities for positive change.

About the author

William Dean Howells (1837–1920) was an American realist author, literary critic, and playwright, nicknamed ‘The Dean of American Letters’. He was particularly known for his tenure as editor of the Atlantic Monthly, as well as for his own prolific writings, including the Christmas story ‘Christmas Every Day’ and the novels ‘The Rise of Silas Lapham’ and ‘A Hazard of New Fortunes’. Howells is often linked with Mark Twain and Henry James in a trinity of American literary giants of the late 19th century. His realist philosophy and literary style reflected in books such as ‘A Traveler from Altruria’ present a critical vision of American society at the turn of the century. The utopian novel not only critiqued the contemporary social system but also explored issues of social justice and economic reform. Similarly, ‘Through the Eye of the Needle’ continued Howells’s engagement with issues of ethics and morality within the social fabric of his times. Howells’s work is characterized by his clear-eyed view of America’s gilded age, his commitment to social critique, and his faith in the power of literature as a vehicle for discussion and change. His impact on American literature is notable for paving the way for realistic narrative as the dominant mode of writing and for mentoring younger authors such as Edith Wharton and Stephen Crane.