| Sumario: | The article examines the complex relationship between politics and early American novels, particularly focusing on Samuel Relf's *Infidelity; or, The Victims of Sentiment* (1797). It highlights a paradox where early American novels were seen as politically significant, yet often centered on personal and emotional narratives rather than overt political themes. The author discusses how Relf's work, while avoiding direct political discourse, reflects his engagement with Federalist politics through its epistolary structure, allowing for a nuanced exploration of textual representation and the dynamics of reading and writing. The article suggests that early American novels, including *Infidelity*, can be recontextualized within the political landscape of their time, offering insights into the authors' broader commitments and the genre's role in shaping political discourse.
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