H.L. Mencken
American journalist and satirist whose vitriolic wit and relentless mockery of American democracy, religion, and provincial culture dominated the 1920s. The American Language is his scholarly contribution to linguistics. He covered the Scopes Trial with gleeful contempt for the prosecution.
Works
- The American LanguageComprehensive study of American English and how it differs from British English
- PrejudicesEssays offering sharp, witty critique of American culture and society
- Happy DaysMemoir of Mencken's youth in Baltimore and family influences
- Newspaper DaysMemoir recounting years spent as journalist and editor covering major news
- In Defense of WomenEssay collection arguing for female independence and intelligence in modern society
- A Book of BurlesquesCollection of satirical essays and parodies of American literary works
- Notes on DemocracyCritique of democratic governance and popular opinion in American politics
- Treatise on the GodsPhilosophical inquiry into the origins and nature of religious belief and practice