The Parlor Car

Name: The Parlor Car
Author: William Dean Howells

By William Dean Howells

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Humour Plays/Films/Dramas Romance

About This Book

A short comic farce set in a railway parlor car where an unexpectedly reunited couple confront a sudden rupture of their engagement amid social embarrassment and physical mishaps. A trapped skirt, a stuck window, and the presence of attendants produce escalating slapstick while characters deflect, accuse, and attempt reconciliation. The confined setting heightens tensions between pride and propriety, and the scene-driven structure relies on timing and misunderstanding to expose romantic pretensions and satirize social manners.

About the Author

William Dean Howells

William Dean Howells (1837-1920) was an influential American author and literary critic, often regarded as the "Dean of American Letters." He is best known for his realistic portrayals of American life and society, particularly in the late 19th century. Howells's works often explore themes of social class and morality, reflecting the complexities of contemporary life. His notable novel, "A Hazard of New Fortunes," delves into the challenges faced by individuals in a rapidly changing society. Throughout his career, Howells contributed significantly to the development of realism in American literature, advocating for a more truthful representation of everyday experiences.