A thorough exploration of the role of Longfellow's literary icon vang line and her role in the North American cultural landscape, available for the first time in English.

The eponymous character of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's epic poem, vang line, is an Acadian girl searching for her long-lost love, Gabriel, during the Expulsion of the Acadians (1755-1764). Originally published in 1847, Longfellow's poem throws into sharp relief a dark chapter of Canada's history, while also showcasing a strong female character that has left an indelible mark on generations of Acadians, French Canadians, Cajuns, and Creoles.

Examining aspects both historical and literary that led to vang line's idolization across countries, cultures, and decades, sociologist Joseph Yvon Th riault presents three versions of the celebrated heroine: vang line the American, vang line the Acadian, and vang line the Cajun. The crux of his narrative seeks to understand if these three distinct identities might be merged, and whether they will survive the effects of globalization.

Passionate and engaging, vang line is a postmodern study on the many interpretations of this literary icon, and the melting pot of cultures she has traversed and influenced. Features a colour photo insert.