Meaning: The quote "Guy Rivers, a conventional piece as regards the love affair which makes a part of the plot, is a tale of deadly strife between the laws of Georgia and a fiendish bandit" is a review by Carl Doren Critic. It refers to the novel "Guy Rivers: A Tale of Georgia" written by William Gilmore Simms, which was first published in 1834. The novel is a classic example of American frontier fiction and historical romance, set in the early 19th century in the frontier regions of Georgia. It follows the story of the protagonist, Guy Rivers, a complex character who becomes entangled in a web of love, violence, and moral conflict.

The quote highlights the central themes of the novel, particularly the conflict between the laws of society and the actions of individuals, as well as the romantic elements that drive the plot. It also alludes to the portrayal of deadly strife and the portrayal of the antagonist as a fiendish bandit, emphasizing the intense and dramatic nature of the narrative.

The novel "Guy Rivers" is significant within the context of American literature as it reflects the historical and cultural milieu of the early 19th century. Set in the aftermath of the War of 1812 and during a period of rapid expansion and settlement in the southern United States, the novel captures the spirit of the frontier and the conflicts that arose in this volatile and lawless environment.

The character of Guy Rivers embodies the tensions between the civilized society represented by the laws of Georgia and the untamed wilderness where bandits and outlaws operated with impunity. Rivers, a former lawyer turned outlaw, becomes a symbol of the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by individuals in the frontier society. His romantic entanglements further complicate the narrative, adding layers of emotional depth and psychological conflict to the story.

The portrayal of the love affair in the novel reflects the romantic conventions of the time, while also serving as a vehicle for exploring the complexities of human relationships in a harsh and unforgiving environment. The interplay between love, honor, and duty adds depth and nuance to the characters and their motivations, elevating the narrative beyond a simple tale of adventure and conflict.

Simms' portrayal of the deadly strife between Guy Rivers and the forces of law and order provides a dramatic backdrop for the exploration of larger themes such as justice, morality, and the consequences of individual actions. The novel delves into the moral ambiguity of its characters, blurring the lines between right and wrong, and challenging the reader to confront the complexities of human nature.

In conclusion, the quote by Carl Doren Critic encapsulates the central themes and conflicts of "Guy Rivers: A Tale of Georgia" and provides insight into the novel's significance in American literary history. Through its portrayal of deadly strife, romantic entanglements, and moral dilemmas, the novel offers a compelling exploration of the human experience in the frontier society of early 19th century Georgia. William Gilmore Simms' work continues to be studied and appreciated for its contributions to the genre of frontier fiction and its insights into the complexities of human nature.