The First American Novel

The Birth of the American Novel: Understanding "The Power of Sympathy"

"The Power of Sympathy," authored by William Hill Brown and published in 1789, is recognized as the first novel written by an American to be published in the United States. This pioneering work is an epistolary novel, telling its story through a series of letters that reveal the intimate thoughts and societal challenges of its characters. The narrative centers around the tragic romance of Harriot Fawcet and Thomas Harrington, who are caught in the web of 18th-century societal expectations and moral strictures. The novel explores themes of seduction, the repercussions of imprudence, and the essential role of female virtue within the context of the period, using Boston, Massachusetts, as its setting.

The Central Narrative: Harriot Fawcet's Dilemma and Tragic Fate

The narrative of "The Power of Sympathy" revolves around Harriot Fawcet, a young woman entangled in a complex romantic situation. She is pursued by two men: the honorable Mr. Boyer and the less scrupulous Sanford. Harriot's preference for Boyer leads her to reject Sanford, who then resorts to a scheme to abduct her. The plot further complicates when Harriot and Thomas Harrington, who are unaware that they are half-siblings, fall in love. Their relationship progresses despite societal disapproval and family objections, but it is ultimately derailed by the revelation of their shared parentage, culminating in a tragic end.

A Tapestry of Characters: The Interconnected Lives in "The Power of Sympathy"

The novel features a rich tapestry of characters whose lives are intricately connected. Central to the story are the star-crossed lovers, Harriot Fawcet and Thomas Harrington. Myra Harrington, Thomas's sister, and Harriot's confidante, expresses concerns about their relationship. Thomas's friend, Jack Worthy, advocates for a respectful approach to courtship. Eliza Holmes, another acquaintance, becomes the unwitting carrier of the secret that unravels the lovers' plans. The narrative also includes Maria Fawcet, Harriot's mother, whose past affair with Mr. Harrington results in Harriot's birth and the subsequent cover-up to avoid scandal. The lives of Mr. and Mrs. Smith and Ophelia are also depicted, illustrating the destructive consequences of infidelity.

The Epistolary Form: A Reflection of Realism and Irony

"The Power of Sympathy" utilizes the epistolary form, a narrative style that was prevalent in the 18th century, to enhance the realism of the story. The use of letters allows readers to delve into the characters' minds, witnessing the development of their thoughts and relationships firsthand. This method also introduces a layer of irony, as the characters, who initially condemn sexual immorality, find themselves entangled in their own scandalous affairs. The letters chronicle the characters' emotional journeys and their eventual downfall, reinforcing the moral lessons intended by the author.

Exploring the Themes: Seduction, Morality, and the Role of Women

"The Power of Sympathy" delves into the perils of seduction and the importance of upholding moral values, particularly for women. The narrative demonstrates the destructive consequences of succumbing to passion, as evidenced by the fates of characters such as Ophelia, Maria, Harriot, and Thomas. The novel suggests that unchecked passion leads to seduction, sin, and ultimately, death. It also underscores the societal expectation that women maintain moral standards, as they are often seen as the guardians of virtue. The dire outcomes for female characters who fail to adhere to these standards serve as a warning against moral failings.

The Moral Imperative: "The Power of Sympathy" as a Didactic Work

In the preface to "The Power of Sympathy," William Hill Brown presents the novel as a didactic piece intended to educate women on the dangers of sexual temptation. The story depicts the disastrous impact of seduction on women, portraying them as both victims and perpetrators within their societal context. The narrative advocates for the importance of moral education for women to preserve their honor and societal order. While male characters are often shown as the initiators of sin with fewer consequences, female characters are subjected to harsh societal judgment and punishment. The novel's tragic storyline serves to impart a moral lesson on the necessity of integrity and the risks associated with deviating from accepted norms.