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| Format | Dissertation |
|---|---|
| Creator | Sloan, Karin Ramspeck |
| Title | Trading the Pen for the Spade: 19th-Century German Immigrant Literature in Texas |
| Dissertation Note (type -- academic institution) | Ed.D -- Texas A&I University |
| Date | 1990 |
| Extent of Work | vi, 195 pages |
| View Online | |
| Contents | Introduction -- Historical Background (German Immigration to Texas -- The Literary Climate of Texas) -- Journey through Paradise: Texas German Writings in Germany (Germany's Early Fascination with America -- Books of Advice -- Travelogues -- Other Writings) -- Writings of Local Interest (Journalism -- Hermann Seele and Other Writers of Fiction -- Historical and Personal Recollections -- Poetry -- Other Writings Reflecting the Culture) -- Conclusion (German Literature in Texas -- The Significance of German Writings in Texas -- The Future of German Literature in Texas) -- References -- Appendix -- Vita |
| Abstract | Writings by German immigrants in 19th century Texas informed, recorded, and reported. The large majority consisted of Texas travelogues and works to advise prospective immigrants from German-speaking Europe, but other genres, including memoirs, novels and poetry, described Texas and its way of life. Their authors, educated in the German tradition and addressing a German audience, viewed Texas through German eyes. Common themes included the wide open spaces, which symbolized freedom; the abundance of available land and wildlife which promised survival and hinted at prosperity; the mild, healthy climate; and the exotic beauty of the land. Though most believed the German culture superior, they condemned European institutions, admired American ingenuity and were optimistic about the future of Texas. Their writings recorded their dreams and accomplishments for their descendants, and influenced history by inspiring their countrymen to follow them to the land of plenty. |
| Call Number | Digital file (PDF) |
| MKI Terms | German Americans -- Texas/ Literature, German (US)/ 19th century/ America in German literature/ Newspapers, German American |