Member-only story

The Thornton Wilder Encyclopedia: An In-Depth Exploration of the Literary Genius

Brayden Reed

·18.2k Followers· Follow

Published in The Thornton Wilder Encyclopedia Thomas S Hischak

4 min read · 1 month before

202 View Claps

22 Respond

Save

Listen

Step into the captivating world of Thornton Wilder, one of the most celebrated American playwrights and authors of the 20th century. The Thornton Wilder Encyclopedia, meticulously crafted by renowned theater historian Thomas Hischak, serves as an indispensable companion for scholars, students, and enthusiasts alike, delving into every facet of Wilder's extraordinary life and prolific body of work.

Thornton Wilder: A Literary Luminary

Born in 1897 in Madison, Wisconsin, Thornton Wilder's literary journey began at an early age. His precocious talent and keen observation of human nature propelled him to become a master storyteller, capturing the essence of American life with unparalleled insight and empathy.

The Thornton Wilder Encyclopedia

by Thomas S. Hischak

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5049 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	222 pages

Wilder's reputation soared with his breakthrough play, Our Town, which premiered in 1938. This timeless masterpiece, set in the fictional town of Grover's Corners, explores the universal themes of life, love, and loss with disarming simplicity and profound emotional impact. Our Town earned Wilder the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1939, solidifying his status as a literary icon.

The Encyclopedia: A Treasure Trove of Insight

The Thornton Wilder Encyclopedia is a comprehensive and authoritative guide to Wilder's entire literary output, spanning his plays, novels, short stories, essays, and lectures. With over 1,000 entries, this encyclopedia offers an unparalleled level of detail and analysis.

Each entry provides a thorough overview of a specific work, including its genesis, plot, characters, themes, and critical reception. Hischak's expert commentary illuminates Wilder's creative process, highlighting the influences that shaped his writing and the enduring legacy of his work.

Beyond the individual entries, the encyclopedia offers a comprehensive chronology of Wilder's life and career, providing a contextual framework for understanding his artistic development. Extensive appendices include a bibliography of Wilder's writings, a list of his awards and honors, and a directory of stage and film adaptations of his works.

Key Features of the Encyclopedia

Over 1,000 entries covering all of Wilder's major works
Expert commentary by renowned theater historian Thomas Hischak
Detailed analysis of Wilder's creative process and literary techniques
Comprehensive chronology of Wilder's life and career
Extensive appendices providing additional resources and information

Target Audience

The Thornton Wilder Encyclopedia is an essential resource for:

Scholars of American literature
Students of theater and drama
Thornton Wilder enthusiasts
Anyone interested in the literary history of the 20th century

The Thornton Wilder Encyclopedia is an indispensable guide to the life and work of one of the most influential American writers. With its comprehensive coverage, expert analysis, and meticulous attention to detail, this encyclopedia empowers readers to delve deeply into Wilder's literary world and gain a profound understanding of his enduring legacy.

Whether you are a seasoned scholar or a curious reader, The Thornton Wilder Encyclopedia is an invaluable resource that will enhance your appreciation of this literary giant and his timeless contribution to American literature.