Respond to one of the following prompts: A. Regionalism is a form of Realism that emphasizes realistic settings, using local dialect, customs, and other specific details of a place. Identify the regional stories in the Realism and Regionalism unit. What part of the country is portrayed, and which details in the story distinguish it from other regions in America? B. Consider what you have learned about American history during the period of 1860 to the early 1900s. How do the stories in the Realism and Regionalism unit reflect what was going on in the country then?
A. In the Realism and Regionalism unit, one of the regional stories is "The Outcasts of Poker Flat" by Bret Harte. It portrays the western part of the United States, specifically California during the Gold Rush era. The story distinguishes itself from other regions by highlighting the harsh and unforgiving nature of the Sierra Nevada mountains, where the characters are banished to. The local dialect of the characters, marked by colloquialisms and expressions, adds to the realism and regional authenticity of the story.
B. The stories in the Realism and Regionalism unit reflect the historical context of America from 1860 to the early 1900s. During this period, the country underwent significant changes, such as the Reconstruction era after the Civil War, rapid industrialization, urbanization, and the rise of social and economic inequalities. Many of the stories in this unit capture the struggles faced by ordinary people during these transformative times.
For example, "A White Heron" by Sarah Orne Jewett portrays the tension between nature and progress as the protagonist, Sylvia, wrestles with the choice of revealing the location of a rare bird to a hunter or preserving the sanctuary of her rural New England home. This story reflects the growing conflicts between preserving natural landscapes and the encroachment of industrialization and urban expansion.
Similarly, "An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge" by Ambrose Bierce reflects the turmoil and uncertainty of the Civil War era. The story delves into themes of illusion, escape, and the psychological impact of war, ultimately questioning the nature of reality and the human desire for freedom. Bierce's story captures the anxiety and trauma that many individuals experienced during this tumultuous period in American history.
Overall, the stories in the Realism and Regionalism unit serve as windows into the social, cultural, and economic transformations of the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. They offer insights into the complexities and conflicts of the era, reflecting the diverse experiences and perspectives of various regions and individuals across the country.