The Ethnography of Manners: Hawthorne, James and Wharton

Nancy Bentley explores the intersection of fiction and ethnography in her critical examination of how these forms articulate social life. By delving into the works of Nathaniel Hawthorne, Henry James, and Edith Wharton, she uncovers the nuanced ways in which each author presents and interprets societal norms and behaviors. Through a thorough analysis of their writings, Bentley reveals how these narratives serve not only as artistic expressions but also as tools for understanding the cultural intricacies of their time.

As Bentley delves deeper into the themes of manners and social conduct, she highlights the rich tapestry of human interaction and its representation in literature. The book invites readers to consider how these authors engage with the cultural contexts in which they wrote, facilitating a dialogue between the literary and the ethnographic. Through this lens, Bentley provides a compelling argument for the significance of literature in illuminating the complexities of social life.