George Jean Nathan Quotes
A collection of quotes by George Jean Nathan.
George Jean Nathan (1882-1958) was an American critic, editor, and essayist who played a prominent role in the development of American drama and literature during the early 20th century. Born on February 14, 1882, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Nathan grew up in an intellectual family that instilled in him a passion for literature and the arts.
After completing his education at Cornell University, Nathan began his career as a critic, writing for various magazines and newspapers. In 1912, he co-founded The Smart Set, a literary magazine known for its bold and irreverent style. Through his work as co-editor of the magazine, alongside H.L. Mencken, Nathan championed the works of important writers of the time, including F. Scott Fitzgerald, Sinclair Lewis, and Eugene O'Neill.
Nathan's criticism was known for its incisiveness, wit, and sharp analysis. He was unafraid to challenge popular opinions and often provided controversial perspectives on both contemporary and classic works. Nathan's commitment to intellectual honesty and his distinct writing style earned him a reputation as one of the most influential critics of his time.
Apart from his extensive work as a critic and editor, Nathan also published numerous collections of essays, including "The Critic and the Drama" and "The American Drama: Its Critics and Cults." He also translated several plays by European playwrights, introducing American audiences to the works of Henrik Ibsen and George Bernard Shaw.
George Jean Nathan continued writing and publishing until his death on April 8, 1958, leaving behind a significant body of work that continues to shape the world of literary criticism.
