Here's why:
* Picaresque Elements: The novel follows Simon Suggs, a roguish and cunning character who navigates his way through various escapades and encounters, often using trickery and wit to his advantage. This is a hallmark of the picaresque genre.
* Early American Setting: The story is set in the American South during the antebellum period, capturing the spirit of the time and providing a unique American context.
* Humorous Tone: "The Adventures of Captain Simon Suggs" is known for its humorous and satirical tone, further aligning it with the picaresque tradition.
Other Notable Early American Novels with Picaresque Elements:
* "The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Vedder" (1839) by John Neal: Though not as widely recognized as "Simon Suggs," this novel also features a roguish protagonist and a loosely connected plot.
* "The Biglow Papers" (1848) by James Russell Lowell: This collection of satirical poems includes the picaresque character Hosea Biglow, who provides commentary on social and political issues.
While the debate about the "first" picaresque novel in America can continue, "The Adventures of Captain Simon Suggs" stands as a significant example of the genre in American literature.