Description
Book SynopsisWritten in the 1840s and published here for the first time, Julia Ward Howe's novel about a hermaphrodite is unlike anything of its time or, in truth, of our own. This story is unique in nineteenth-century American letters, at once a remarkable reflection of a largely hidden inner life and a richly imagined tale of coming-of-age at odds with one's culture.
Trade Review"What was probably her [Julia Ward Howe's] most unusual work has remained unpublished until now. The 'Laurence manuscript'—actually, manuscript fragments—has dwelt in literary limbo in a box in Harvard University's Houghton Library. Now the novel has been stitched together by Gary Williams. . . . and released as
The Hermaphrodite with a revealing introduction."—
Chronicle of Higher Education"The publication of the book is one of the most exciting developments in nineteenth-century American literary studies of the past decades. It parallels the recovery of many other works by women and writers of color, but because it is an intersexual text, it also brings a new voice and perspective into scholarly conversations. . . . Howe's writings are newly important. We are lucky that they are available to us."—Renée Bergland,
Legacy"William's introduction to the volume contextualizes Howe's manuscript and provides fuel for interpretive thought."—Rebecca Resinski,
Key Reporter"Scholars, teachers, and students of American studies are fortunate that Williams has edited, published, and introduced contemporary readers to Julia Ward Howe's Laurence manuscripts.
The Hermaphrodite opens new perspectives on Julia Ward Howe. In this novel we hear the voice of the author as an important intellectual, and an astute critique of American culture who would later gain acclaim as an exemplary advocate for the rights of African Americans and women."—Laura Castor,
American Studies in Scandinavia“
The Hermaphrodite should be especially alluring to students of queer theory, since it has taken over a century and a half for the book to come out of the closet. . . . A historically relevant and enduring novel.” —Liz Webster,
CALYX: A Journal of Art and Literature by WomenTable of ContentsAcknowledgmentsSpeaking with the Voices of Others: Julia Ward Howe's LaurenceA Note on the TextThe Hermaphrodite Section 1 Section 2 Section 3Appendix 1Appendix 2
