Henry James and the Philosophy of Literary Pragmatism

Exploring the intersection of literature and pragmatism, this book delves into Henry James's narratives, highlighting how his characters and settings reflect the philosophical ideas of his contemporaries, such as Charles Peirce and William James. Set against the backdrop of postwar industrial change, it examines how James, while skeptical of mainstream philosophy, crafted his unique perspective on individuality, society, experience, and truth. Gregory Phipps argues that James's fiction captures a pivotal moment in American intellectual history, enriching the understanding of pragmatism's evolution.