The Sleeping-Car: A Farce

William Dean Howells' 'The Sleeping-Car: A Farce' is a humorous and satirical play that explores the absurdities of wealth, social status, and human nature. Written in a light and witty style, Howells uses sharp dialogue and comedic situations to highlight the hypocrisy and folly of the upper class. Set in a luxurious sleeping-car on a train, the play cleverly exposes the characters' shallow desires and selfish motivations. This farce fits within Howells' larger body of work, known for its social commentary and realism, although in this instance his tone is more lighthearted and ironic. The play reflects Howells' keen observation of human behavior and his knack for shining a light on societal norms and values. Inspired by the author's own encounters with the upper class, 'The Sleeping-Car: A Farce' provides a delightful and thought-provoking look at the follies of privilege and pretension. I recommend this play to readers who enjoy clever humor, sharp social critique, and a glimpse into the absurdities of human nature.

William Dean Howells (1837-1920) was a prominent figure in American literature, often acknowledged as the 'Dean of American Letters' during his lifetime. He carved his niche in the realist movement, forsaking the romanticized fiction of his time in favor of a closer examination of American life. Howells' literary career spanned multiple genres, including novels, short stories, plays, and farces. Among his works is 'The Sleeping-Car: A Farce,' which reflects his wit and his eye for social nuances. His farces often employed humor to critique social norms and behaviors, a testament to his keen observation and progressive beliefs. Howells was not merely a writer but also a literary critic, and served as the editor of the influential 'The Atlantic Monthly' for a decade. His literary style was marked by a focus on ethical issues, realism, and character development over plot, setting him apart from contemporaries. His works like 'A Modern Instance' and 'The Rise of Silas Lapham' are considered benchmarks of realism in American literature and continue to be studied for their portrayal of American society and culture in a pivotal era. Howells was an advocate for social justice and a mentor to many younger writers, including Mark Twain and Henry James, further cementing his legacy in the annals of American literary history.