Paul’s Case: A Study in Temperament Study Guide

Willa Cather: A Concise Biography

Willa Cather (1873-1947) was an influential American author known for her vivid portrayals of frontier life on the Great Plains. Born in Virginia, she moved with her family to Nebraska at the age of nine, an experience that profoundly influenced her writing. Cather attended the University of Nebraska, where she began her literary career as a journalist and editor. She later moved to Pittsburgh and then to New York City, where she worked for McClure's Magazine before dedicating herself full-time to writing.

Cather's works often explore themes of individuality, the pioneer spirit, and the complexities of human relationships. She achieved critical acclaim with novels such as "O Pioneers!" (1913), "My Ántonia" (1918), and "Death Comes for the Archbishop" (1927). Her writing is celebrated for its lyrical prose and rich character development, earning her the Pulitzer Prize for "One of Ours" in 1923.

Historical and Literary Context for "Paul’s Case: A Study in Temperament"

"Paul’s Case: A Study in Temperament" was first published in 1905 in McClure’s Magazine and later included in Cather's 1905 short story collection, "The Troll Garden." The story is set in Pittsburgh and New York City at the turn of the 20th century, a period marked by rapid industrialization and significant social and economic changes in the United States.

During this era, the American dream of success and upward mobility was powerful, yet it often clashed with the stark realities of class divisions and the constraints of conventional societal expectations. Cather's story delves into these tensions by focusing on Paul, a young man who feels trapped by his mundane middle-class existence and yearns for the beauty and glamour he associates with the arts and high society.

Literary modernism was emerging during the period in which Cather wrote "Paul’s Case." This movement sought to break away from traditional narrative forms and explore deeper psychological and existential themes. Cather's story reflects modernist influences through its focus on Paul's internal struggles and its critique of materialism and conformity. The story also employs a more detached and analytical narrative style, emphasizing the psychological dimensions of Paul’s character.

"Paul's Case" is notable for its exploration of themes such as alienation, the conflict between reality and illusion, and the pursuit of aesthetic beauty. Its enduring relevance lies in its nuanced portrayal of a young individual’s search for identity and meaning in a world that often prioritizes material success over personal fulfillment.

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