Dangerous Giving in Nineteenth-Century American Literature

The book explores the dark, unruly, and self-destructive side of gift-giving in nineteenth-century literary works by American authors, revealing the ambiguity of the gift in various social and cultural contexts.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 244 pages
Publication date: 29 April 2023
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This captivating book delves into the intricate and often-contradictory realm of gift-giving, as portrayed in nineteenth-century literary works by American authors. It establishes the profound significance and enduring relevance of gift exchange in the modern American literary and intellectual landscape, while also unveiling the multifaceted complexities of the gift within various social and cultural contexts. From the perspectives of authors like Emerson, Kirkland, Child, Sedgwick, Hawthorne, Poe, Douglass, Stowe, Holmes, Henry James, Twain, Howells, Wilkins Freeman, and O. Henry, as well as lesser-known, obscure, and anonymous authors, Dangerous Giving uncovers the intricate web of ambivalent relations between dangerous gifts, the modern ideology of disinterested giving, and the enduring sentimental tradition.

The book begins by tracing the historical roots of gift-giving in nineteenth-century America, exploring how it evolved as a cultural practice and its relationship to the broader social and political context of the time. It examines how authors used the gift as a means of expressing complex emotions, navigating social hierarchies, and challenging societal norms. Through a close reading of selected literary works, the book highlights the ways in which gifts can be both empowering and destructive, serving as symbols of love, loyalty, and respect, as well as tools of manipulation, control, and exploitation.

One of the central themes of Dangerous Giving is the ambiguity of the gift. The book argues that gifts are not always straightforward or transparent, but rather carry with them a range of complex meanings and implications. It explores how gifts can be interpreted as expressions of genuine affection and generosity, or as veiled attempts to manipulate or control others. The book also examines how gifts can be influenced by social and cultural norms, such as race, gender, religion, and consumption, shaping the way in which they are received and interpreted.

Another important aspect of Dangerous Giving is its exploration of the relationship between dangerous gifts and modern ideology of disinterested giving. The book argues that the modern concept of disinterested giving, which emphasizes the importance of giving without expecting anything in return, is often at odds with the emotional and relational aspects of gift-giving. It explores how the desire for self-preservation and the fear of vulnerability can lead individuals to give gifts that are insincere or manipulative, ultimately undermining the true meaning and purpose of gift exchange.

In addition to its analysis of the gift in literary works, Dangerous Giving also considers the broader cultural implications of gift-giving. It examines how gift-giving has been used as a tool for social and political activism, as well as a means of promoting cultural exchange and understanding. The book highlights the ways in which gifts can be used to bridge gaps between different communities, promote empathy and compassion, and challenge dominant narratives and power structures.

Throughout the book, Dangerous Giving employs a rich and interdisciplinary approach, drawing on insights from literature, cultural studies, sociology, and psychology. The authors use a combination of theoretical frameworks and close textual analysis to shed light on the complexities of gift-giving and its impact on individuals and society as a whole.

In conclusion, Dangerous Giving is a thought-provoking and insightful book that offers a fresh perspective on the complex and often-contradictory realm of gift-giving. By exploring the dark, unruly, and self-destructive side of gift-giving as represented in nineteenth-century literary works by American authors, the book establishes the centrality and relevance of gift exchange for modern American literary and intellectual history. It also reveals the ambiguity of the gift in various social and cultural contexts, including those of race, sex, gender, religion, consumption, and literature. Through its comprehensive analysis of the gift, Dangerous Giving provides valuable insights into the emotional and relational aspects of gift-giving, as well as its broader cultural implications. This book will be of interest to scholars and students of literature, cultural studies, sociology, and psychology, as well as anyone who is interested in the complexities of human relationships and the power of the gift.

Weight: 344g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030932725
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022