Henry James

Henry James (1843-1916) was a seminal American-British author and literary critic, renowned for his contributions to 19th-century literature. Born in New York City to a prominent and intellectual family, James was exposed to the literary world early on and embarked on extensive travels across Europe during his youth. These experiences profoundly influenced his writing, embedding a transatlantic consciousness in his work.

After short stints at Harvard Law School, James chose to devote himself entirely to writing. His early works, such as "Roderick Hudson" (1875) and "The American" (1877), showcased his deft characterizations and psychological depth. However, it was with novels like "The Portrait of a Lady" (1881) and "The Wings of the Dove" (1902) that James cemented his reputation. These works intricately explore themes of identity, morality, and cultural conflict.

A master of narrative technique, James' later period saw innovations in stream-of-consciousness writing, particularly in his novel "The Ambassadors" (1903). Beyond his novels, he penned critical essays and novellas, including the beloved "The Turn of the Screw" (1898). In 1915, James became a British subject, in part as protest to America's initial neutral stance in World War I. His legacy endures through his meticulous exploration of the human psyche and the moral complexities of modernity.