what are the Literary Eras (each era should have its own slide(s))
Time Period
Key Authors and Texts
Major Themes or Characteristics
What historical events influenced or led to this literary era?
What differences do you notice between this era and the previous one?
Note: The Night Thoreau Spent in Jail and The Great Gatsby should be included with the appropriate era, not listed on their own.
Reflection
Which era did you enjoy the most and why?
for, Early American and Colonial Literature
Literary Era: Early American and Colonial Literature
Time Period: 1600-1800
Key Authors and Texts:
- William Bradford: Of Plymouth Plantation
- Anne Bradstreet: The Tenth Muse Lately Sprung Up in America
- Cotton Mather: Magnalia Christi Americana
- Jonathan Edwards: Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God
Major Themes or Characteristics:
- Exploration and settlement of the New World
- Religious influence in literature
- Focus on self-improvement and moral values
- Themes of accountability, salvation, and divine providence
Historical Events Influencing this Literary Era:
- Arrival of the Pilgrims on the Mayflower in 1620
- Establishment of the Massachusetts Bay Colony in 1630
- The Great Awakening religious revival in the 1730s-1740s
Differences from the Previous Era:
- Shift from purely religious texts such as sermons to more secular writings
- Focus on life in the New World rather than religious controversies in England
- Increased emphasis on personal experiences and individualism
Reflection:
Personally, I found this era quite fascinating as it marked the beginning of American literature. It was intriguing to explore how the early American settlers expressed their religious beliefs and experiences through their writings. The themes of morality, salvation, and divine providence added depth to the literature produced during this time. Additionally, learning about the historical events that shaped this era provided valuable context and understanding.