This extensive entry in the Canadian and World Encyclopedia offers a thorough biography of MacLennan, drawing comparisons between his life and his work. This biocritical essay on the University of Calgary web site goes beyond the above encyclopedia entry, closely examining MacLennan's life and library of work. How does this information change your view of "Portrait of a City"? If you are interested in more information on MacLennan's life and work, visit The Hugh MacLennan Papers Online Project. This web site contains another MacLennan biography, photos, and access to MacLennan's writing and personal correspondence.
MacLennan is largely known for his vivid descriptions. For a graphic display, visit the picture gallery of halifaxinfo.com. Which do you think gives you a stronger impression of Halifax? "Portrait of a City" draws to a close with MacLennan climbing the Halifax Citadel. Visit the Parks Canada web site to learn some of the history of this significant Halifax landmark. What other Halifax landmarks from MacLennan's essay can you find information on? The Halifax Explosion page of the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic web site offers text, photos, and links about this historic moment. Why do you feel the Halifax Explosion made such an impact on the young Hugh MacLennan?
Though MacLennan is perhaps best known for his description of Halifax, other Eastern locales have caught his attention as well. Compare his description of Cape Breton with that of Halifax in "Portrait of a City". Which do you feel is more vivid? Why? MacLennan's Barometer Rising appears on a list of the 1000 greatest literary works of all time, along with the likes of Shakespeare, Chaucer, Alexander Pope, and Jane Austin. How do you think lists like these are made? The Hugh MacLennan Papers Online Project offers an extensive bibliography of MacLennan's work, books and article on MacLennan, and more. A terrific starting point for more information on MacLennan.
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2002 McGraw-Hill Higher Education