Discussion Topic As American colonists questioned Britishrule. public discussion focused on topics such as colonial independence and individual rights. In turn, Iiterature from the American Revolutionary period often reflected important political and social themes, including national independence, perspnal liberty. and individualism.
how does the literature of this period influence future generations of American literature?
Where have you seen traces ot these themes and how were they presented in the other literature you read?
The literature of the American Revolutionary period, which focused on themes of colonial independence, individual rights, national independence, personal liberty, and individualism, had a profound influence on future generations of American literature. These themes became central to the understanding of American identity and the ideals upon which the nation was built.
In the literature that followed, traces of these themes can be seen in various ways. For example, in the writings of authors such as Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau during the transcendentalist movement of the 19th century, there is a continued exploration of individualism and self-reliance. Their works, such as Emerson's essay "Self-Reliance" and Thoreau's book "Walden," emphasize the importance of trusting one's own instincts and breaking away from societal conventions.
Similarly, in the works of American authors in the 20th century, like F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby" and Harper Lee's "To Kill a Mockingbird," the themes of personal liberty and individual rights continue to resonate. Fitzgerald's portrayal of the pursuit of the American Dream in "The Great Gatsby" reflects the ongoing fascination with the idea of individual success and independence. Lee's exploration of racial injustice in "To Kill a Mockingbird" reflects the ongoing struggle for equality and civil rights in American society.
These themes have been presented throughout American literature in different ways, with each generation of writers adding their unique perspectives. The literature of the American Revolutionary period served as a foundation, providing a framework for future generations to explore and question the ideas of independence, liberty, and individualism.