Henry James’s early European years (1869-1874) were crucial for shaping his artistic sensibilities and identity as a writer. In letters to his family, he expressed admiration for European culture and shared new inspirations. He explored the contrasts between American and European societies, with the refined artistic environment of Europe significantly influencing his creative work.

INTRODUCTION
NOTE
I. FIRST?EUROPEAN?YEARS: 1869-1874
PREFACE
LETTERS:
To Miss Alice James
To his Mother
To his Mother
To William James
To William James
To his Father
To Charles Eliot Nor Ton
To his Parents
To W. D. Howells
To Miss Grace Norton
To his Mother

II. PARIS AND?LONDON: 1875-1881
To his Father
To W. D. Howells
To William James
To William James
To Miss Grace Nor Ton
To Miss Grace Nor Ton
To William James
To Miss Alice James
To William James