Nick of the Woods The novel is set in Kentucky in the 1780s and revolves around the mysterious figure of "Nick of the Woods", dressed as a monster, who seeks to avenge the death of his family by killing numerous Indians, carving a cross on the body of all he slays. "Nick" is revealed to be Nathan Slaughter, a Quaker by day who should by nature and creed avoid all violence. Bird's brutal depiction of Native Americans (the Shawnee) was very hostile, and in part a reaction to the more positive representation of Indians by James Fennimore Cooper in the Leatherstocking Tales. The novel
Tales of the Alhambra essays and short fiction pieces, it was referred to as his "Spanish "Sketch Book"". Shortly after the book's publication, Irving returned to New York after a 17-year absence from the United States. In 1851 Irving wrote an "Author's Revised Edition", also titled "Tales of the Alhambra". The book was instrumental in reintroducing the Alhambra to Western audiences. A plaque now marks the rooms in which Irving stayed while writing some of his book. Alexander Pushkin's 1834 tale in verse "The Tale of the Golden Cockerel" is based on two chapters of "Tales of the Alhambra". In turn, the Pushkin poem