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Cover of The Atlantic Monthly, Volume 15, No. 87, January, 1865: A Magazine of Literature, Art, and Politics

The Atlantic Monthly, Volume 15, No. 87, January, 1865: A Magazine of Literature, Art, and Politics

Written by Various

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American periodicals

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About this book

"The Atlantic Monthly, Volume 15, No. 87, January, 1865" by Various is a literary magazine published in the mid-19th century. This volume contains a rich compilation of essays, poetry, and articles covering various themes in literature, art, and politics relevant to the period during the American Civil War. The magazine appeals to readers interested in diverse topics and intellectual discourse of the time, making it a key piece of literary history. At the start of this volume, the content unfolds with a blend of stories and literary pieces, including a continuation of Nathaniel Hawthorne's "Dolliver Romance." The opening follows Grandsir Dolliver and his granddaughter Pansie in a domestic setting, highlighting themes of familial bonds and the intersection of nature and memory through the cultivation of medicinal herbs. The narrative reflects on personal loss while introducing characters with rich backstories, such as the apothecary and his gifted grandson, whose tragic end foreshadows a profound exploration of human experiences linked to life and death. The writing style is characteristically dense and evocative, typical of the literature from this era.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in The Atlantic Monthly, Volume 15, No. 87, January, 1865: A Magazine of Literature, Art, and Politics, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • advanced
  • intellectual
  • reflective
  • historical

The Atlantic Monthly, Volume 15, No. 87, published in January 1865, serves as a significant literary and political artifact from the final months of the American Civil War. This volume compiles a diverse array of essays, poetry, and articles, reflecting the intellectual and cultural landscape of mid-19th century America. It notably features a continuation of Nathaniel Hawthorne's unfinished work, "Dolliver Romance," which delves into themes of familial bonds, loss, and the intersection of memory with nature through its evocative prose. Beyond this narrative, the magazine provides a crucial platform for intellectual discourse, offering insights into the prevailing thoughts on literature, art, and politics during a tumultuous national period. Its dense, evocative style and varied content make it an invaluable resource for understanding the historical and literary context of its time.

“"The old man, Grandsir Dolliver, with his white hair like winter moss, moved through his garden, where every herb was a memory, and every blossom a whispered name."”

Key themes

Memory and Loss
This theme is central to the 'Dolliver Romance' fragment, where Grandsir Dolliver's life is deeply shaped by past losses. His garden, filled with medicinal herbs, becomes a physical manifestation of his memories and the lingering grief he carries. The narrative explores how individuals cope with personal sorrow and how the past continues to influence the present, particularly through familial bonds.
Intellectual Discourse and Social Commentary
Beyond the fictional narrative, the magazine as a whole serves as a vital platform for intellectual and social commentary during a critical juncture in American history. It provides insight into the prevailing thoughts on politics, art, and literature, reflecting the national mood and ongoing debates as the Civil War neared its end. This theme emphasizes the magazine's role as a shaper of public opinion and a record of contemporary thought.
Familial Bonds and Legacy
Explored through the tender relationship between Grandsir Dolliver and his granddaughter Pansie, this theme highlights the importance of intergenerational connections. It suggests that legacy is not just about material inheritance but also the passing down of memories, values, and the emotional weight of a family's history. Pansie represents hope and continuity for the aging Dolliver.

Worth discussing

How does the inclusion of Nathaniel Hawthorne's 'Dolliver Romance' set the tone for the entire volume, despite being a fragment?

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