Bronson Howard as the First American Playwright - Essay Example

The analysis of themes and characters of Howard’s plays “The Banker’s Daughter”, “Young Mrs. Winthrop”, and “Henrietta” reveals Howard’s focus on the issues of American society, in particular within its emerging business segment. The themes of arranged marriage for business purposes, business bankruptcy,  destruction of family values as a result of a business-centered worldview, and the role of business in American society have been introduced to American theater in these three plays. In addition, Howard managed to create a character of a businessman with a focus on his human nature, which is especially evident in the characters of Old Nick in “Henrietta” and Lawrence Westbrook's “The Banker’s Daughter”.

Importantly, the topics explored by Howard are still appealing to the modern reader. While reading Howard’s plays, one can trace how the present worldview that prevails in American society was emerging. It also provides an intersection of American business class values and life philosophy and warns against excessive focus on money and profits.  All in all,  Howard’s contribution has been analyzed against the background of his biography.