The Atlantic Monthly, Volume 20, No. 119, September, 1867 A Magazine of Literature, Science, Art, and Politics

"The Atlantic Monthly, Volume 20, No. 119, September, 1867" by Various is a magazine that gives a snapshot of 1800s society through stories and essays. The magazine explores themes of ambition and fitting in, following characters like Myrtle Hazard, a young woman aiming for high social status, and Mr. Livingston Jenkins, who sees her star potential. Myrtle attracts the attention of influential figures, like Mrs. Clymer Ketchum and Mr. William Murray Bradshaw. The setting opens with a party hosted by Mrs. Ketchum that introduces social games and rivalries. The magazine then introduces Gifted Hopkins, a poet with big dreams, and Master Byles Gridley as they attempt to make their way in the literary scene while dealing with the expectations of their peers. These stories work together to make comment on ambition and social standing in American society.