The Rise of Sensationalism in American Literature and Culture

The Rise of Sensationalism in American Literature and Culture: 1620‑1860 argues that the rise of the American tradition of sensationalism can be better understood in the transatlantic context. Early American writers were unquestionably influenced by various forms of European sensationalism. At the same time, they often felt compelled to distance themselves from their European counterparts whom they accused of promoting voyeuristic indulgence in the scandalous and demoralizing their readers. Amer