"Tanglewood Tales" Victorian Cloth Book

"Tanglewood Tales" by Nathaniel Hawthorne is a collection of reimagined Greek myths written as a sequel to his earlier work, "A Wonder-Book for Girls and Boys." This Windermere Edition, published by Rand McNally & Company and illustrated by Milo Winter, likely dates to the 1920s or 1930s, when the series was at its peak. The book adapts classic myths such as the stories of the Golden Fleece, Persephone’s descent into the underworld, and Theseus and the Minotaur, making them accessible and engaging for children. Hawthorne's retellings blend lyrical prose with moral undertones, emphasizing bravery, curiosity, and the triumph of good over evil, which align with Victorian-era ideals of storytelling as a tool for character development.

Hawthorne wrote "Tanglewood Tales" in 1853 to introduce young readers to Greek mythology in a way that would entertain while also educating. His reinterpretations adapted these ancient tales for an American audience, reflecting the mid-19th century's growing emphasis on didactic literature for children. The work combines timeless mythical themes with Hawthorne’s unique narrative voice, reflecting the literary movement of the time to bridge classical influences with the emerging American literary identity.

This particular edition stands out for its mustard-yellow cloth binding, embossed gold lettering, and a vibrant, illustrated cover by Milo Winter. Winter, renowned for his work in children’s literature, brings the myths to life with lush and detailed illustrations, including colored plates that add richness to the storytelling. Such features were hallmarks of high-quality book production in the early 20th century, designed to captivate readers visually and immerse them further into the world of mythology.

Condition:

Good condition.