Matthiessen succeeded in uniting critical formalism with political radicalism, Christian concerns with social egalitarianism, to make a major contribution to American literature and culture. As a major literary critic and distinguished teacher, his extraordinary output of critical works constitutes a crucial part of American intellectual development. Stern's compassionate study reveals now Matthiessen synthesized the opposing forces in his own ideas to interpret the art of literature. Originally published in 1981. A UNC Press Enduring Edition -- UNC Press Enduring Editions use the latest in digital technology to make available again books from our distinguished backlist that were previously out of print. These editions are published unaltered from the original, and are presented in affordable paperback formats, bringing readers both historical and cultural value.