Monopolizing the Master: Henry James and the Politics of Modern Literary Scholarship

Abstract

This study explores the intricate dynamics surrounding the literary legacy of Henry James, particularly focusing on how his extended family and custodians of his literary remains, notably biographer Leon Edel, monopolized access to his unpublished papers. The book delves into a secretive network of family members and associates who sought to control public perceptions and interpretations of James's life and works for reasons ranging from maintaining family reputation to scholarly ambition and homophobia. Anesko traces the evolution of James studies from its privileged amateur origins within the family to its professionalization in modern literary scholarship. The author highlights how Henry James actively shaped his own and his brother William’s literary reputations, including extensive revisions of their works for publication. Notably, James burned much of his correspondence during his later years in England, further limiting access to personal insights. This study underscores the political dimensions of literary scholarship, revealing how control over archival materials can influence academic discourse and interpretations of an author's legacy.

(The abstract and keywords were prepared retrospectively for indexing purposes using AI-assisted tools and editorial review, based on the original article. They did not appear in the original publication.)