SUGGESTED READINGS
MINOR WRITERS.—The Croakers, in Wilson's edition of Halleck's Poetical
Writings.
Selections from the poetry of Drake and Halleck may be found in Stedman's American Anthology, pp. 36-47, and in S. & H., Vol. V.
IRVING.—His Knickerbocker's History of New York begins with somewhat tiresome matter, condensed from chapters which he and his brother had jointly written on a different plan. The first part may well be omitted, but Books III., V., VI., VII. should at least be read.
Read his best two short stories, Rip Van Winkle and The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. Lovers of Irving will also wish to read some tales from The Alhambra, and some of his essays: e.g. Westminster Abbey and Stratford-on-Avon. For selections from his various works, see Carpenter, 124-134; S. & H., V., 41-62.
COOPER.—One of his Leather stocking Tales (p. 131), e.g. The Last of the Mohicans, which is deservedly the most popular, should be read. If a tale of the sea is desired, read either The Pilot or The Red Rover. Selections may be found in Carpenter, 124-134; S. & H., V., 138-183.
Bryant.—Read Thanatopsis, To a Waterfowl, O Fairest of the Rural Maids, A Forest Hymn, The Death of the Flowers, The Evening Wind, To the Fringed Gentian, and The Poet. All of these are accessible in Bryant's poetical works, and almost all may be found in Page's The Chief American Poets. Selections are given in Stedman's American Anthology; S. & H., Vol. V.; and Long's American Poems, 1776-1900.