Brickhouse's main argument, albeit much simplified, is that the 19th century American literature, written in English, was inextricably linked with writings and audiences in French and Spanish.



She presents comparative views of American literature, from the standpoint of French and Spanish writers. Where the Spanish literature might be from Cuba or Mexico. And the French from mainland France or from the French colonies or ex-colonies in the Americas.



It is a richer, subtler view than that traditionally espoused in English-only analyses of 19th century United States.