Washington Irving

Easton Press Washington Irving books

Rip Van Winkle / The Legend of Sleepy Hollow and Other Stories - 1967

The Sketch book of Geoffrey Crayon Gent. - 1967
The Alhambra - 100 Greatest Books Ever Written - 1978
The Legend of Sleepy Hollow and Other Stories - 1996
The Legend of Sleepy Hollow and Other Stories - 100 Greatest Books Ever Written - 2002

Franklin Library Washington Irving books

The Sketch book of Geoffrey Crayon Gent. - Collected Stories of the World's Greatest Writers - 1983
Sketchbook of Geoffrey Crayon - 100 Greatest Masterpieces of American Literature - 1983
Sketch book of Geoffrey Crayon Gent. - World's Best Loved Books - 1985

 

Washington Irving biography

Washington Irving, a distinguished American author, essayist, biographer, and diplomat, was born on April 3, 1783, in New York City, during the early years of the United States. Irving would go on to become one of the first American literary figures to achieve international recognition for his contributions to literature. Coming from a family of merchants, Washington Irving initially worked in his family's business but soon discovered his passion for writing. He contributed essays and satirical pieces to local newspapers under various pseudonyms, showcasing his wit and literary talent. His early works displayed a keen sense of humor and a fascination with the rich cultural history of New York.

In 1809, Irving published his first major work, A History of New York from the Beginning of the World to the End of the Dutch Dynasty, under the pseudonym Diedrich Knickerbocker. The satirical history, filled with humor and whimsical tales, brought him recognition and established his reputation as a skilled and entertaining writer. Washington Irving's literary career flourished with the publication of short stories, essays, and travel narratives. His collection of short stories, The Sketch Book of Geoffrey Crayon, Gent., released in installments between 1819 and 1820, featured two of his most enduring works – Rip Van Winkle and The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. These tales, set in the Dutch-influenced Hudson Valley, contributed significantly to the development of American literature.

In addition to his contributions to fiction, Irving had a successful career as a biographer and historian. His biographies of Christopher Columbus and George Washington demonstrated his versatility as a writer and a deep interest in American history. Irving's international acclaim grew, leading to his appointment as the U.S. Minister to Spain in 1842. He spent several years in Europe, representing his country diplomatically while continuing to write. His time in Spain inspired his biographical works on Spanish history and culture.

Washington Irving returned to the United States in 1846 and continued his literary pursuits until his death on November 28, 1859. His impact on American literature is immeasurable, with his works contributing to the development of a distinct American literary voice. His humorous and imaginative storytelling, coupled with his ability to capture the essence of American landscapes and history, earned him a lasting place in the annals of literary history. The legacy of Washington Irving endures, and his influence can be seen in the works of subsequent generations of American writers.