John P. Marquand Criticism
John P. Marquand was an American novelist renowned for his exploration of the upper and upper-middle classes of Boston and New England. His work is characterized by a keen social realism and a focus on the intricate manners and mores of a fading American aristocracy. Marquand's narrative style blends satirical wit with a detailed portrayal of his characters' lives, effectively capturing the essence of a society in transition. His novels often explore the tension between individual identity and societal expectations, a theme highlighted by C. Hugh Holman, who notes Marquand's skillful depiction of social mobility and character development against the backdrop of societal change. In his ability to chronicle the lives of the upper-middle-class, Marquand is often compared to literary figures such as Edith Wharton, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and Thackeray, as argued by Leo Gurko.
Contents
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Marquand, John P(hillips) (Vol. 10)
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C. Hugh Holman
(summary)
In the following essay, C. Hugh Holman explores John P. Marquand's novels, emphasizing his focus on social realism, character development influenced by societal changes, and the nuanced portrayal of social mobility, while highlighting Marquand's adept narrative techniques and his depiction of the tension between self and society as a central theme.
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Leo Gurko
(summary)
In the following essay, Leo Gurko argues that John P. Marquand is a masterful chronicler of the upper-middle-class, equating his literary prowess with Edith Wharton's social observations, F. Scott Fitzgerald's exploration of nostalgia, and Thackeray's irony.
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C. Hugh Holman
(summary)
- Marquand, John P(hillips) (Vol. 2)