автор: William Derricourt

Washington Irving, born on April 3, 1783, in New York City, remains a seminal figure in the development of American literature. His writings exhibit the duality of American and European cultural influences, which he adeptly navigated throughout his literary career. Renowned for his witty and imaginative short stories, Irving is often regarded as America»s first genuine internationally best-selling author. Best known for such works as «The Legend of Sleepy Hollow» and «Rip Van Winkle, » he was a master of satire, historical fiction, and the sketch story. Irving channeled his fascination with Spanish culture and history in «Tales of the Alhambra, » a delightful blend of reality and fiction, drawing from his stay in Granada and his experiences within the enchanting precincts of the Alhambra Palace. This collection of essays, sketches, and stories demonstrates his narrative skill and has since captured the imagination of readers with its evocative descriptions of the Moorish fortress and its legends. His literary style combines a picturesque quality with an easygoing narrative voice, a balance of fanciful characters, and scrupulous historical details, which has lent his work an enduring appeal. Irving»s influence on American literature was profound, establishing a literary tradition that embraced both the new world»s burgeoning identity and the old world»s rich heritage. He died on November 28, 1859, leaving behind a legacy as a pioneer of American fiction and an architect of the American short story form.