by Henry James (Author)

Although Henry James was himself none too fond of 'The Europeans', the novel has nevertheless proved to be a firm favourite with readers ever since its publication in 1878. The juxtaposition of two cultures with their differing values and expectations was fertile ground for James' comic genius, and he uses the varied interplay of characters to poke fun at the social mores of the day while at the same time attempting a more serious critique of New England society.