Nathaniel Hawthorne 
Wonder Book 
Including ‘Tanglewood Tales’

Nathaniel Hawthorne’s ‘Wonder Book’ is a collection of Greek myths retold for a young audience, showcasing Hawthorne’s unique blend of moral allegory and fantastical storytelling. This book, filled with vivid imagery and rich language, provides a bridge between classical mythology and 19th-century American literature. Through the adventures of various mythological characters, Hawthorne delivers moral lessons in an engaging and accessible way, making the stories both entertaining and thought-provoking. The ‘Wonder Book’ is a testament to Hawthorne’s skill in adapting ancient tales for a contemporary audience, making them relevant and captivating for readers of all ages. Nathaniel Hawthorne, a prominent American writer of the 19th century, was known for his exploration of themes such as guilt, sin, and redemption. His background in Puritan heritage and his interest in history and folklore greatly influenced his writing, making him a master of allegorical storytelling. Hawthorne’s fascination with mythology and moral lessons shines through in ‘Wonder Book’, as he presents timeless stories to teach valuable lessons to young readers. I highly recommend ‘Wonder Book’ to anyone interested in mythology, classical literature, or moral tales. Hawthorne’s skillful reimagining of Greek myths makes this book a must-read for those seeking both entertainment and enlightenment.

关于作者

Nathaniel Hawthorne (1804–1864) remains one of the most significant figures in the annals of American literature, celebrated for his rich use of symbol and allegory, and his profound exploration of moral and historical themes. Born in Salem, Massachusetts, a town indelibly marked by its 17th-century witch trials, Hawthorne’s lineage included a judge responsible for the prosecution during those trials, a fact that left a lasting imprint on the writer’s psyche and works (Wineapple, 2003). Hawthorne graduated from Bowdoin College in 1825 and embarked on a writing career that eventually led to his recognition as a central figure of the American Romantic movement. His novel ‘The Scarlet Letter’ (1850) is lauded for its narrative complexity and deep psychological insight, qualities hallmark to Hawthorne’s literary style. In ‘The House of the Seven Gables’ (1851), he further exemplifies his capacity for delving into themes of guilt, retribution, and atonement. One of his less cited but notable works is ‘A Wonder-Book for Girls and Boys’ (1851), retitled simply as ‘Wonder Book’, in which Hawthorne retells various Greek myths for children with his characteristic attention to moral lessons and the darker aspects of human nature (Hawthorne, 1851). The tales are creatively rendered, making them accessible to a younger audience while maintaining the literary sophistication esteemed in his writings. Hawthorne’s influence on literature continues, as his works contribute to the canon of early American fiction and offer invaluable insight into the cultural and psychological fabric of his time.