The American historical novel (on American themes) before 1860

This study analyzes the novelist's early historical romances, arguing he adapted the formulas of Sir Walter Scott to American subjects, shaping patriotic settings and moral conflicts in frontier and naval milieus. It traces his development from imitation of English society novels to experiments with native themes, focusing on his depiction of wartime neutral ground and spycraft, his characterization techniques, and public reception. The essay considers critical responses, declining popularity, and gaps in biographical materials, and situates the works in relation to contemporary critical standards and predecessors, assessing how formal choices and national themes contributed to his contribution to the historical novel.