Examine the grammatical correctness and equivalence of 'astride of' versus 'astride' in a literary context | Step-by-Step Solution

1. What We're Solving:

We need to analyze whether "astride of" and "astride" are grammatically equivalent in Henry James's Daisy Miller, and determine if the phrase can be simplified without changing meaning or correctness.

2. The Approach:

We'll examine this by understanding how "astride" functions grammatically, looking at historical usage patterns, and considering the stylistic choices available to writers.

3. Step-by-Step Solution:

Step 1: Understand the word "astride"

• "Astride" can function as both an adverb and a preposition
• As an adverb: "She sat astride" (describes HOW she sat)
• As a preposition: "She sat astride the horse" (shows the relationship between her and the horse)

Step 2: Examine "astride of"

• This is a prepositional phrase where "astride" acts as an adverb modified by the prepositional phrase "of [something]"
• It's a more formal, somewhat archaic construction
• Think of it like "independent of" rather than just "independent"

Step 3: Consider historical and stylistic context

• Henry James wrote in the late 19th century when "astride of" was more common
• Literary language often preserves older forms that might sound formal today
• James was known for elaborate, precise language choices

Step 4: Test for equivalence

• "Astride the fence" vs. "Astride of the fence"
• Both are grammatically correct, but they carry slightly different stylistic weight
• The "of" version is more formal and emphatic

4. The Answer:

Yes, "astride of" can often be simplified to just "astride" in modern usage without losing grammatical correctness. However, they're not perfectly equivalent - "astride of" is a more formal, emphatic construction that was common in James's era. In the context of Daisy Miller, keeping "astride of" preserves the author's stylistic intention and the period's linguistic flavor.

5. Memory Tip:

Think of "astride of" as the formal cousin of "astride" - like how we might say "independent of" instead of just "independent from." The "of" adds formality and emphasis, making it particularly suitable for literary language!

Great question - you're thinking like a careful reader by noticing these subtle grammatical choices that contribute to an author's style! 📚