Stephen Vincent Benét
Biography
Stephen Vincent Benét (1898–1943) was an American poet, novelist, and short story writer. Born in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, into a military family, he published his first book of poetry at age seventeen. Benét is best known for his epic poem John Brown’s Body (1928), a sweeping narrative of the American Civil War that won the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry. His short story “The Devil and Daniel Webster” (1936) became one of the most famous American short stories. Benét’s work celebrates American history, folklore, and democratic ideals with lyrical power and narrative sweep.
Common themes in Stephen Vincent Benét's work
American Civil War
A recurring theme throughout Stephen Vincent Benét's writing.
Narrative poetry
A recurring theme throughout Stephen Vincent Benét's writing.
American folklore
A recurring theme throughout Stephen Vincent Benét's writing.
Democratic ideals
A recurring theme throughout Stephen Vincent Benét's writing.
Books
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Why Stephen Vincent Benét is still read today
Benét’s epic treatment of the Civil War in John Brown’s Body remains one of the great achievements of American narrative poetry. His celebration of American history and democratic ideals continues to resonate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Stephen Vincent Benét?
Stephen Vincent Benét was an American poet and writer who won the Pulitzer Prize for his Civil War epic John Brown’s Body. Read his works free on TextStack.
What is John Brown’s Body?
A book-length narrative poem about the American Civil War, published in 1928 and awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry.
What else is Benét known for?
His short story The Devil and Daniel Webster (1936) is one of the most famous American short stories.
Where can I read Stephen Vincent Benét online?
TextStack offers John Brown’s Body free to read online.
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