write an essay comparing and contrasting The literacy pieces realism and romanticism and the theme of the American Dream along with a raisin in the sun and use quotations from other reliable sources
and make it sound like a student wrote it
Realism and Romanticism are two literary movements that have shaped American literature in different ways. While Realism focuses on depicting everyday life and society as it truly is, Romanticism emphasizes the power of imagination and emotion. Both of these movements have explored the theme of the American Dream – the idea that anyone can achieve success and prosperity through hard work and determination.
One of the most famous literary works that explores the theme of the American Dream is "A Raisin in the Sun" by Lorraine Hansberry. The play tells the story of the Younger family, who are African American and living in a run-down apartment in Chicago. Each family member has their own dreams and aspirations, but they are all ultimately striving to achieve a better life for themselves.
In "A Raisin in the Sun," the character Walter Lee Younger represents the struggle to achieve the American Dream. He wants to use his father's life insurance money to invest in a liquor store and increase his family's financial standing. However, his dream is dashed when his partner runs off with the money, leading to Walter feeling defeated and questioning the validity of the American Dream.
This exploration of the American Dream in "A Raisin in the Sun" can be compared and contrasted with the themes of Realism and Romanticism in literature. Realism, with its focus on depicting reality as it is, often shows the harsh realities of society and the struggles of everyday people. This can be seen in the portrayal of the Younger family's living conditions and the challenges they face in achieving their dreams.
On the other hand, Romanticism, with its emphasis on imagination and emotion, can be seen in the characters' aspirations and desires in "A Raisin in the Sun." Each family member dreams of a better life for themselves, and their hopes and dreams drive the plot of the play.
In an article by The Atlantic, writer Wendy Smith discusses the American Dream in relation to literature, stating, "The American Dream has always been about opportunity – the opportunity to rise above one’s circumstances, to fulfill one’s potential, to live a life of one’s own choosing." This quote resonates with the themes explored in "A Raisin in the Sun," as each character is striving for their own version of success and happiness.
Overall, "A Raisin in the Sun" incorporates elements of Realism and Romanticism in its exploration of the American Dream. The play showcases the struggles and aspirations of a working-class African American family, highlighting the challenges they face in achieving their dreams. Through the characters' experiences, the play delves into the complexities of the American Dream and questions its attainability for marginalized communities.