John Neal's American Writers Overview

John Neal's "American Writers" (1824-25)

• John Neal, an American writer and critic, published "American Writers" (1824-25), a pioneering work of literary criticism.
• It was the first history of American literature and the first substantial critical analysis of US authors.
• Published in Blackwood's Edinburgh Magazine, the work covered over 120 authors.
• Neal's assertions about the authors were often inaccurate, despite lacking citations.
• However, critics praised the longevity of his viewpoints.
• Neal argued that American literature relied heavily on British models and lacked its own distinctive voice.
• The work was published anonymously under a British pseudonym.
• The work was positively received in the UK but received negative reactions in the USA, notably from William Lloyd Garrison.

Personal Conflict and Aftermath

• Neal's 1827 visit to Portland, Maine (birthplace of Neal), resulted in hostility and a physical altercation.
• He relocated to Portland and lived there until his death.
• His work demonstrated strong perspectives about American Literature's direction and quality.