Write an essay about how the literature of America has changed over time, as seen in this semester’s readings. You should select 4 important pieces of literature that you have read and use them to show how literature reflects history, as well as how literature reflects changes or events throughout history. Be sure to include a brief summary of the historical time periods for each piece. Consider elements such as theme, style, and tone in your analysis.
The literature of America has evolved significantly over time, reflecting changes in societal norms, values, and historical events. This semester, we have explored a variety of works that span different time periods, from early colonial America to the contemporary era. Through the analysis of key pieces of literature from each time period, we can gain a deeper understanding of how American literature has transformed over the centuries.
One of the first pieces we studied was Anne Bradstreet's poem "To My Dear and Loving Husband," which was written in the 17th century during the colonial period. Bradstreet's poetry was characterized by its devotion to God and family, reflecting the Puritan values of the time. The poem explores themes of love, marriage, and faith, and is written in a plain and straightforward style typical of early American literature. This work reflects the religious fervor and strict moral codes of colonial America, as well as the limited roles available to women at the time.
Moving forward to the 19th century, we studied Herman Melville's novel "Moby-Dick," which was published in 1851 during the era of American Romanticism. This novel is a complex and multi-layered work that explores themes of obsession, revenge, and the power of nature. Melville's writing style is highly symbolic and philosophical, reflecting the transcendentalist ideals of the time. "Moby-Dick" is a reflection of the changing attitudes towards nature and the growing sense of individualism in America during the 19th century.
Next, we examined F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel "The Great Gatsby," which was published in 1925 during the Roaring Twenties. This novel is a scathing critique of the American Dream and the excesses of the Jazz Age, as seen through the eyes of the enigmatic Jay Gatsby. Fitzgerald's writing style is elegant and lyrical, capturing the glamour and disillusionment of the era. "The Great Gatsby" reflects the societal upheaval and moral decay of the 1920s, as well as the shifting values and attitudes of the post-World War I generation.
Finally, we explored Toni Morrison's novel "Beloved," which was published in 1987 during the contemporary era. This novel is a powerful exploration of the legacy of slavery and its impact on African American identity. Morrison's writing style is poetic and evocative, drawing the reader into the haunting and brutal world of her characters. "Beloved" reflects the ongoing struggle for racial equality and social justice in America, as well as the enduring legacy of slavery on the African American community.
In conclusion, the literature of America has changed significantly over time, reflecting the shifting values, attitudes, and historical events of each era. Through the analysis of key works from different time periods, we can gain insights into the evolution of American literature and its profound impact on society. As we continue to explore the rich and diverse literary tradition of America, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the ways in which literature reflects and shapes our understanding of history and culture.