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Blind Idealism In Twain's "War Prayer" And Howell's "Editha" - College Essays

Blind Idealism In Twain's "War Prayer" And Howell's "Editha"

Mark Twain and William Dean Howells are friends and contemporary authors of the late nineteenth and early twentieth century. In addition, the authors embrace the similar, yet unpopular, stance of opposing the idealistic philosophy, promoting imperialism, that is prevalent in American society during that period. However, contrary to public opinion, both authors compose numerous articles and stories that openly illustrate their convictions. A key event in the midst of this imperialistic movement is the Spanish American War. Under the idealistic guise of liberating Cuba from foreign oppression, the United States capitalizes on this conflict to further its' global power and influence. ...

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stories attempt to challenge the idealistic glory of war and realistically unmask the unavoidable devastation, suffering and death, each author adopts a distinctive literary approach.
In "War Prayer", Mark Twain appeals to the moral and religious conscience of the nation, urging the populace to look deeply into the devastation of war. Twain uses a religious congregation to portray the idealistic populace. The congregation expounds on the doctrine of Manifest Destiny and the resulting imperialist philosophy that the United States' expansion of territory and influence is God ordained. To this end, the gathering seeks the favor and blessing of God on its righteous undertaking and the glorious victory to which the United States is entitled. The congregation manifests the spiritual component of idealism. The people are caught up in the ever spiraling emotional frenzy that is permeating though out the nation: "young volunteers marched down the wide avenue gay and fine in their ...

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Blind Idealism In Twain's "War Prayer" And Howell's "Editha". (2006, May 13). Retrieved January 10, 2026, from http://www.essayworld.com/essays/Blind-Idealism-Twains-War-Prayer-Howells/45849

"Blind Idealism In Twain's "War Prayer" And Howell's "Editha"." Essayworld.com. Essayworld.com, 13 May. 2006. Web. 10 Jan. 2026. <http://www.essayworld.com/essays/Blind-Idealism-Twains-War-Prayer-Howells/45849>

"Blind Idealism In Twain's "War Prayer" And Howell's "Editha"." Essayworld.com. May 13, 2006. Accessed January 10, 2026. http://www.essayworld.com/essays/Blind-Idealism-Twains-War-Prayer-Howells/45849.

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Added: 5/13/2006 03:31:44 PM
Category: Book Reports
Type: Free Paper
Words: 1218
Pages: 5

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