Joseph and His Friend

Bayard Taylor's 'Joseph and His Friend' is a captivating novel that delves into the complexities of friendship and same-sex relationships in a 19th-century American setting. The book is written in a fluid and descriptive style, transporting the reader to the world of Joseph Asten and Philip Held, the two main characters whose bond is tested by societal norms and personal desires. Taylor's novel is considered groundbreaking for its exploration of intimate relationships between men during a time when such topics were taboo in literature. The book offers a unique perspective on love, friendship, and self-discovery, making it a poignant and thought-provoking read for those interested in LGBT themes in literature. Bayard Taylor, a prominent American author, was known for his travel writing and poetry, and 'Joseph and His Friend' reflects his progressive views on relationships and societal expectations. Taylor's personal experiences and observations likely influenced the novel's themes of love and friendship, making it a compelling and insightful work that continues to resonate with readers today. I highly recommend 'Joseph and His Friend' to readers looking for a thought-provoking exploration of intimate relationships and societal norms in 19th-century America.

Bayard Taylor (1825-1878) was an American poet, literary critic, translator, and travel author best known for his vivid accounts of his journeys. Taylor was born on January 11, 1825, in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania. His adventurous spirit and literary ambitions led him to become a preeminent figure in 19th-century travel literature. His book, 'Joseph and His Friend' (1870), showcases his talent as a novelist and is one of the early works in American literature to depict same-sex love, regarded by some as a pioneering gay novel. Though best known for his travel writings, such as 'Views Afoot' (1846) and 'Eldorado, or Adventures in the Path of Empire' (1850), Taylor's work ranged from poetry to fiction, including his translation of Goethe's 'Faust' which is considered one of the definitive English versions. His literary style is marked by rich description and a keen eye for cultural details, reflective of the Romantic era's fascination with the exotic and picturesque. Taylor served as a diplomat in the latter part of his life, becoming the United States Minister to Germany shortly before his death. He died on December 19, 1878, in Berlin, leaving behind a legacy of extensive travel literature that continues to be of scholarly interest for insights into 19th-century attitudes towards culture, exploration, and international relations.