Since this is a history of the African American novel, it's probable that it mentions Ralph Ellison. His 'Invisible Man' is a classic in African American literature. Alice Walker is also a significant figure whose works like 'The Color Purple' have made a great impact. And Frederick Douglass, though known for his autobiography which was a precursor to the African American novel, may also be included as his work was so influential in laying the groundwork for future African American writers.
Valerie Babb might have focused on highlighting the cultural and social influences on the development of these novels. She could have explored how they reflect the experiences and struggles of the African American community and their impact on literature as a whole. Also, she might have identified key authors and their contributions to shaping the genre.
I think it would cover things like the cultural and historical context in which the African American novels emerged. It might discuss how the African American community's fight for civil rights was reflected in the novels. Also, it may examine the different sub - genres within the African American novel, like slave narratives, coming - of - age stories, and protest novels. And it would most likely highlight the voices of African American writers who have used the novel form to tell their stories and make a statement about their place in society.
There are quite a few. Zora Neale Hurston is a well - known author. Her works, such as 'Their Eyes Were Watching God', are a great contribution. Ralph Ellison with 'Invisible Man' is also crucial. These authors have each added unique perspectives to the African American novel's history.
Richard Wright is important. His novel 'Native Son' was a powerful exploration of race and poverty. Toni Morrison is also a key figure. Her works like 'Beloved' are deeply moving and complex examinations of African American history and identity. Zora Neale Hurston with 'Their Eyes Were Watching God' is another significant writer.
Ralph Ellison is a key figure. His 'Invisible Man' is a landmark in African - American literature. Ellison was able to capture the complex feelings of African - Americans in a society that often overlooked or misjudged them.
One important African American novel is 'To Kill a Mockingbird' by Harper Lee. It deals with themes of racial injustice in the American South. Another is 'Beloved' by Toni Morrison, which explores the legacy of slavery. And 'The Color Purple' by Alice Walker is also significant, as it tells the story of an African American woman's struggle and growth.
There are probably many others. For instance, Herman Melville with 'Moby - Dick', a work that is both a great adventure story and a deep exploration of human nature. And then there's Nathaniel Hawthorne, whose works often deal with themes of sin and morality. These authors, among others, would be important figures to be covered in the 'Oxford History of the American Novel' as they have made significant contributions to the development of the American novel.
Well, it's likely to include Mark Twain. His works like 'The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn' are significant in American literature.
One important theme is racial discrimination. In many short stories, African Americans are depicted as facing various forms of discrimination, from being denied opportunities to being treated unjustly in society. For example, in some stories, African American characters are not allowed to enter certain places or get proper education just because of their skin color.
Perhaps it mentions Benjamin Franklin. Even though he is known for many other things, his influence on the literary scene in early America could be relevant. He was involved in the printing and dissemination of literature, which would have an impact on the development of the early American novel.