Old Christmas (Illustrated Edition) (ePub)

Washington Irving (1783-1859), an iconic figure in American literature, is widely regarded as one of the United States' first acclaimed authors to gain international renown. Born in New York City just after the end of the American Revolution, Irving fostered a fascination with the tales and myths of bygone eras, a fascination that would heavily influence his literary pursuits. He is perhaps best known for 'The Legend of Sleepy Hollow' and 'Rip Van Winkle,' both of which appear in his collection 'The Sketch Book of Geoffrey Crayon, Gent.' His writing style seamlessly blended wit, charm, and a sense of romanticism with elements of the supernatural, often exploring themes of historical importance and national identity.

Irving's 'Old Christmas' (Illustrated Edition) is a delightful reflection on the traditional celebrations of Christmas in an English manor house. His depiction of the yuletide season encompasses a veneration for customs and a nostalgia that resonates with readers. This quaint and idyllic representation of Christmas mirrors Irving's broader literary gift: the ability to create immersive and pastoral narratives imbued with a gentle humor. His influence extended beyond literature; Irving is credited with setting the foundations for the American short story and is also a notable figure in the development of the genre of historical fiction. His contributions to literature were not just whimsical tales, but also a deeper commentary on the society of his time, earning him a place amongst the literary elites of the nineteenth century.