In English 11 you have studied literature from the 1920s through the 1980s and learned about how American society changed over that time period.
Write an essay about how the literature of America has changed over time, as seen in this semester’s readings. You should select 4 important pieces of literature that you have read and use them to show how literature reflects history, as well as how literature reflects changes or events throughout history. Be sure to include a brief summary of the historical time periods for each piece. Consider elements such as theme, style, and tone in your analysis.
Throughout this semester in English 11, we have studied literature from the 1920s through the 1980s, witnessing how American society and culture evolved over time. The pieces of literature we have analyzed provide a lens through which we can observe the changes and events that occurred during these decades. By examining four important works, including "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald, "Their Eyes Were Watching God" by Zora Neale Hurston, "Slaughterhouse-Five" by Kurt Vonnegut, and "Beloved" by Toni Morrison, we can see how literature reflects history and societal shifts.
"The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald, published in 1925, is set during the Roaring Twenties, a period known for its excess and materialism. The novel explores themes of wealth, class, and the American Dream, all of which were central to this era. Fitzgerald's portrayal of the glamorous yet shallow lives of the characters reflects the disillusionment and emptiness that accompanied the Jazz Age.
Zora Neale Hurston's "Their Eyes Were Watching God," published in 1937, takes place in the rural South during the Harlem Renaissance, a time of cultural revival and African American empowerment. The novel follows Janie Crawford's journey to self-discovery and independence, challenging traditional gender roles and racial norms. Hurston's lyrical prose and use of Southern dialect reflect the rich oral traditions and folklore of African American culture.
Kurt Vonnegut's "Slaughterhouse-Five," published in 1969, addresses the lasting effects of war and the trauma of the Dresden bombing during World War II. The novel combines science fiction elements with satire to explore the futility of war and the impact it has on individuals. Vonnegut's anti-war sentiments and nonlinear narrative style reflect the disillusionment and unrest of the counterculture movement in the 1960s.
Toni Morrison's "Beloved," published in 1987, delves into the legacy of slavery and its impact on African American identity. Set in post-Civil War America, the novel centers on the haunting presence of a ghost and the complexities of memory and trauma. Morrison's lyrical prose and exploration of themes such as motherhood and freedom highlight the enduring legacy of slavery and its effects on future generations.
Overall, these four works of literature from different time periods showcase the various ways in which American society has changed over the years. Each piece reflects the historical context in which it was written, addressing themes and issues that were prevalent during that time. By studying literature from the 1920s through the 1980s, we gain a deeper understanding of how literature both shapes and reflects the history and culture of its time.