Here's why:
* Sentimentalism was indeed a dominant theme: Early American novels (18th and early 19th centuries) often focused on domestic life, family relationships, and the emotional experiences of individuals, particularly women. This was fueled by the "cult of domesticity" that idealized women as nurturing and responsible for home life.
* Emphasis on morality and virtue: These novels often explored themes of virtue, morality, and the consequences of choices, often within the context of a family setting. They aimed to teach lessons about proper behavior and social values.
* Notable authors and their works: Authors like Susanna Rowson, Hannah Webster Foster, and Charles Brockden Brown wrote popular novels that dealt with domestic issues and sentimental themes. "Charlotte Temple" (Rowson) and "The Coquette" (Foster) are prime examples.
* Emergence of other genres: As American literature developed, other genres, like Gothic and the frontier novel, emerged. These genres expanded the themes and scope of early American literature.
However, it's important to remember that:
* Not all early American novels were purely sentimental: There were works that explored political and social issues beyond the domestic sphere, such as James Fenimore Cooper's "The Last of the Mohicans" (1826) and Nathaniel Hawthorne's "The Scarlet Letter" (1850).
* Sentimentalism wasn't always positive: Some critics argued that sentimentalism could be overly melodramatic and manipulative.
Overall, while domestic situations and sentimental themes were prominent in early American novels, it's crucial to acknowledge the diversity of themes and genres that emerged during this period.