Nathaniel Hawthorne

"Nathaniel Hawthorne" by George Edward Woodberry is a revealing biography that uncovers the origins and development of the celebrated American author. The book starts by exploring Hawthorne's family history, highlighting his ancestors' involvement in the early Massachusetts Bay Colony. It paints a picture of the serious atmosphere of Hawthorne's upbringing, noting the profound effect of his father's death and his mother's extended mourning on his young life, factors that ultimately impacted his writing. Further, the narrative examines Hawthorne's developing interest in literature, his fondness for reading, and his tendency toward solitude, all of which laid the groundwork for his complex character and significant artistic achievements.