My Kinsman, Major Molineux | Techniques

Although he uses some elements of Gothic fiction in this story, Hawthorne's principal model for this tale is the historical memoir. The writer takes great pains in the opening paragraphs to establish a precise time for the story, locating events during the colonial period in American history when local rebellions were making life difficult for British officials sent to govern the provinces. Having established a degree of realism through this technique, Hawthorne turns his attention to a psychological study of the youth Robin. He makes significant use of symbolism, relying on the...

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