Dr. Emily VanDette, a professor in the Department of English, contributed to the Cambridge University Press volume, “Mark Twain in Context,” a book that places the iconic U.S. author's life and work in historical and personal contexts.
Dr. VanDette's chapter, "Animals and Animal Rights," sheds light on the historical and biographical circumstances surrounding Twain's devotion to animals in his life and writing.
VanDette's research focuses on 19th century American literature, especially the powerful reform writing that sought to raise consciousness and bring about social change. Her current research explores the legacy of authors in the early animal rights movement, including Twain and his contemporaries.
A description of the chapter can be found online, and a description of the book can also be found online.
