What literature do you consider to be part of the United States' current literary canon? Why?
Does your teacher want my opinion or yours?
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To determine what literature is considered part of the United States' current literary canon, we need to understand that the literary canon is an evolving and subjective concept. It refers to a collection of significant works of literature that are widely recognized as important and influential in a particular culture or society. However, consensus can vary, and different scholars, critics, and communities may have different perspectives on what should be included in the canon.
That being said, there are several works of literature that are often studied and acknowledged as important within the United States' literary tradition. These works have had a lasting impact on American culture, reflected and shaped social movements, and have been studied in educational institutions. Here are some examples:
1. "Moby-Dick" by Herman Melville: This epic novel explores themes of obsession, power, and existentialism, and it has had a profound influence on American literature.
2. "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee: This novel addresses issues of racial injustice through the eyes of a young girl, offering insights into the complexities of society and promoting empathy and understanding.
3. "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald: Considered a classic of American literature, this novel explores the disillusionment and excesses of the Jazz Age, reflecting on the American Dream.
4. "Beloved" by Toni Morrison: Morrison's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel tackles the legacy of slavery through a blend of rich storytelling and powerful exploration of trauma, memory, and identity.
5. "The Catcher in the Rye" by J.D. Salinger: This influential novel presents the journey of a teenager grappling with alienation and the loss of innocence, capturing the voice of a generation.
These are just a few examples, and the canon can include many other works, such as those by Walt Whitman, Emily Dickinson, William Faulkner, and many more, depending on the criteria and perspectives of different scholars and literary communities.
The determination of the current literary canon is an ongoing process influenced by factors such as academic consensus, cultural shifts, and the reevaluation of previously marginalized voices. It's important to remember that the literary canon is not fixed or unchanging, and new works continually emerge and challenge existing notions.