Literary Luminaries of New York State: Rose Pastor Stokes, Anzia Yezierska, Sonya Levien, and Jetta Goudal

Rose Pastor Stokes (1879-1933) was a pioneering radical feminist, writer, and social reformer. Born in Hungary, she immigrated to the United States as a young child and grew up in a working-class neighborhood in Rochester, New York. From an early age, she witnessed firsthand the harsh realities of poverty and inequality.

Stokes became involved in the labor movement and socialist politics. In 1905, she married James Graham Phelps Stokes, an Episcopal priest who shared her dedication to social reform. Together, they established the Children's Village, a progressive residential community for orphans and neglected children in Dobbs Ferry, New York.

Stokes's writing was deeply influenced by her socialist beliefs. She wrote articles, essays, and novels that exposed the exploitation of women and the working class. Her most famous work, the autobiographical novel "The Man from Manhattan" (1909),tells the story of a young woman who leaves an oppressive marriage and struggles to make a new life for herself in New York City.

Stokes was also a vocal advocate for birth control and reproductive rights. She helped to found the Birth Control League of America and was arrested multiple times for distributing information about contraception.

Anzia Yezierska (1885-1970) was a groundbreaking immigrant writer who captured the experiences and struggles of Eastern European Jewish immigrants in the United States. Born in Poland, she arrived in New York City with her family at the age of six.

Yezierska grew up in poverty and faced discrimination and prejudice throughout her life. She worked in factories and sweatshops before eventually earning a college degree and becoming a writer. Her writing is characterized by its strong voice, vivid imagery, and deep empathy for the working class.

Yezierska's most famous work, the novel "Bread Givers" (1925),tells the story of a young Jewish woman who sacrifices her own dreams to care for her demanding and overbearing parents. The novel was a critical and commercial success and became a classic of American literature.

Yezierska also wrote short stories, plays, and essays. Her work explores themes of immigration, identity, and the challenges faced by women.

Sonya Levien (1888-1980) was a prolific and influential screenwriter who helped to shape the early years of Hollywood cinema. Born in Russia, she immigrated to the United States as a child and grew up in New York City.

Levien began her career as a journalist before turning to screenwriting in the 1910s. She quickly became known for her sharp dialogue and ability to write strong female characters. She wrote scripts for over 100 films, including "The Scar" (1914),"The Green Goddess" (1923),and "The Garden of Allah" (1927).

Levien's writing often explored social issues and challenged conventional gender roles. In "The Scar" (1914),she tells the story of a woman who defies societal expectations and pursues a career in law. In "The Green Goddess" (1923),she writes a complex and sympathetic portrayal of a Hindu princess who falls in love with a British officer.

Levien was one of the first women to achieve success in the male-dominated field of screenwriting. She was a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and served on its board of governors.

Jetta Goudal (1897-1985) was a glamorous and enigmatic silent film star who captivated audiences around the world. Born in the Netherlands, she began her career as a stage actress in Paris before moving to Hollywood in the early 1920s.

Goudal quickly became one of the most popular actresses of the silent era. She starred in over 50 films, including "The Ten Commandments" (1923),"Ben-Hur" (1925),and "The Kiss" (1929). Her beauty, exotic accent, and expressive acting style made her an instant sensation.

Goudal was known for her sophisticated and elegant persona, both on and off screen. She was a fashion icon and was often photographed in the latest designer gowns. She was also a muse to artists and writers, including F. Scott Fitzgerald and Ernest Hemingway.

Goudal's career declined with the advent of sound films. She returned to Europe in the 1930s and continued to act in occasional films and stage productions.