Life of Edwin Forrest, the American Tragedian. Volume 1 (of 2)

"Life of Edwin Forrest, the American Tragedian. Volume 1 (of 2)" by William Rounseville Alger is a 19th-century account of the life of Edwin Forrest, a distinguished American actor, filled with details about his contributions to the stage, his character, and the events that molded his career. It aims to tell his story and discover how his life fits into the history of American theater. The book begins by explaining why Edwin Forrest was important as an innovative figure in American acting. Alger explains why he wrote this book, stressing how important it is to share the life of someone who greatly impacted the theater. The opening chapters described Forrest’s family history showing the good qualities they gave him, hinting at the obstacles he conquered as he matured in an unstable home. The writer also touches on the biases against actors during Forrest's time. The overall tone of the book is thoughtful and analytical, indicating a profound look at Forrest's intricate personality and the intense world of 19th-century American theater.