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William Lyon Phelps (1865-1943) was an illustrious American author, critic, and scholar renowned for his enthusiasm for teaching and literature. A luminary at Yale University, Phelps was not only immensely popular among his students but also widely respected by literary contemporaries. He was the Lampson Professor of English Literature and penned numerous books, essays, and articles, contributing significantly to the literary discourse of his era. Phelps is recognized for his accessible style, effectively bridging the gap between the academy and the general public. One of his notable contributions lies in the realm of Russian literature; his compilation 'The Best Russian Plays and Short Stories by Dostoevsky, Tolstoy, Chekhov, Gorky, Gogol and many more' is considered a seminal work that introduced the English-speaking audience to Russian classics. His approach blended scholarly insight with a passion for storytelling, enabling a deeper appreciation for the richness of Russian literary heritage. Phelps's work in advancing the cause of literature was not just confined to the dissemination of other cultures' masterpieces; he was also a prominent lecturer and an advocate for the joy of reading, influencing generations of readers and writers.
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