American Literature and Culture Overview
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Questions and Answers

Which of these contemporary literary movements challenges the established postmodern literary norms by emphasizing sincerity, earnestness, and emotional depth?

  • Postmodernism
  • Postautonomous Art
  • New Sincerity (correct)
  • Neo-Realism

    • The rise of electronic publishing and the increasing popularity of genres like romance, thriller, and fantasy are indicators of which trend in contemporary literature?

  • The Genre Turn (correct)
  • Oral Performance
  • Minimalism
  • Neo-Realism

    • What is a key characteristic of Neo-Realism, as exemplified by authors like Tom Wolfe and Raymond Carver?

  • Emphasis on irony and detachment
  • Emphasis on authenticity and detailed realism (correct)
  • Rejection of single-entendre values
  • Focus on fragmentation and uncertainty

    • Which contemporary author is known for her detailed psychological realism and minimalist prose, representing a shift towards narrative stability in contrast to postmodern uncertainty?

    <p>Alice Munro (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of these literary movements embraces an understanding of art as both aesthetic and political, challenging the notion of autonomous art?

    <p>Postautonomous Art (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following literary trends challenges the traditional role of literature in the digital age, suggesting that the era of literature as a dominant art form might be over?

    <p>Literature and the New Media (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which writer predicted a return to single-entendre values and rejection of irony as the dominant literary mode, contributing to the rise of the New Sincerity movement?

    <p>David Foster Wallace (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of these literary trends involves personal, raw, and emotionally exposing poetry that blurs the lines between private and public life?

    <p>Confessional Poetry (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What concept does Aristotle emphasize in contrast to Plato's criticism of art?

    <p>Art has the potential to shape reality (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which literary movement is characterized by a focus on characters shaped by heredity and environment?

    <p>Naturalism (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What term did Mark Twain and Charles Dudley Warner coin to describe the post-Civil War era?

    <p>The Gilded Age (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the term 'Reality Effect' refer to in literary realism?

    <p>The illusion of truth created through detailed description (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which key theme is commonly explored in Jack London's works associated with Naturalism?

    <p>The struggle for survival in a natural environment (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary focus of Local Color/Regionalism in literature?

    <p>Highlighting dialects, customs, and landscapes of specific regions (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Jacob Riis's work 'How the Other Half Lives' primarily addresses which societal issue?

    <p>Slum conditions and poverty (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What philosophical perspective does poststructuralism reject regarding literature's representation of reality?

    <p>Literature is a direct reflection of actual events (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What theme is primarily explored in 'The Sea Wolf' by Jack London?

    <p>Masculinity and the clash of ideologies (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which narrative technique did Henry James famously employ in his works?

    <p>Stream of Consciousness (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characterizes Modernism as a literary movement?

    <p>Challenging traditional forms and embracing experimentation (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a defining feature of the Lost Generation writers?

    <p>Their focus on themes of disillusionment and alienation (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which author is associated with the minimalist 'iceberg principle' in writing?

    <p>Ernest Hemingway (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which work features a man’s failure due to overconfidence in intellect over instincts?

    <p>To Build a Fire (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did Gertrude Stein advocate in her literary works?

    <p>Experimental forms resembling modernist art (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect of society did Modernism respond to?

    <p>Cultural and societal changes due to industrialization (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the main focus of Samson Occom's writings?

    <p>Exploring Native American struggles with colonization and conversion (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was one of the key themes depicted in Clare's work regarding slavery?

    <p>Moral corruption of slavery (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characterized the Puritan belief in American Exceptionalism?

    <p>A view that America was destined for extraordinary leadership and prosperity (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who is known for creating the 'Jim Crow' character in minstrelsy?

    <p>Thomas D. Rice (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of writing style is exemplified by John Winthrop's 'A Model of Christian Charity'?

    <p>Plain style (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a Jeremiad?

    <p>A sermon combining lamentation and a call for renewal (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which author is associated with the theory of realism and is known for advocating the use of true language and dialects?

    <p>William Dean Howells (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which event marked the start of permanent English settlement in America?

    <p>The establishment of Jamestown in 1607 (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the context of realistic literature, what does psychological realism focus on?

    <p>The inner workings of the human mind (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which work is often associated with local color realism and depicts the dialect and customs of New England life?

    <p>The Country of the Pointed Firs (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which belief underpins the Puritan concept of Predestination?

    <p>Salvation is predestined, regardless of human effort (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What significant document was signed in 1776 that asserted a new national identity for the United States?

    <p>Declaration of Independence (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What distinguishes naturalism from realism?

    <p>Emphasis on determinism and social conditions (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following themes is central to the literary movement known as realism?

    <p>Moral ambiguities and the struggles of the working class (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What literary strategy involves interpreting events as extensions of Biblical narratives?

    <p>Typology (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which author is known for depicting themes of urban poverty and despair in their work?

    <p>Stephen Crane (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was one of the primary concerns expressed in early accounts of explorers and settlers?

    <p>Survival and interaction with Native Americans (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who is considered one of the first Native American authors to publish in English?

    <p>Samson Occom (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following themes is NOT characteristic of naturalism?

    <p>Moral growth of individuals (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What literary philosophy prioritizes truthful representation of reality in its narrative style?

    <p>Realism (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a significant theme explored by Tennessee Williams in his works, particularly in 'A Streetcar Named Desire'?

    <p>Exploration of raw human desires and societal decay (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which play by Arthur Miller serves as an allegory related to McCarthyism?

    <p>The Crucible (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a primary characteristic of the Off-Off-Broadway Movement?

    <p>Experimental performances that redefined theater (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following plays is known for its feminist themes and is categorized as a detective drama?

    <p>Trifles (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Eugene O’Neill’s work was influenced by which two movements in drama?

    <p>Naturalism and Expressionism (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the subject matter of Lilian Hellman's 'The Children’s Hour'?

    <p>Confrontation of societal taboos, including lesbianism (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a key characteristic of the drama produced during the Great Depression era?

    <p>Politicization and engagement with current social issues (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which playwright is known for using epic theater techniques to universalize human experiences?

    <p>Thornton Wilder (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What do the themes of identity and race explore in Eugene O'Neill's 'The Emperor Jones'?

    <p>The psychological impact of colonialism and myth (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the Harlem Renaissance influence American drama of the 1920s?

    <p>It integrated African American cultural elements into mainstream theater. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Gilded Age

    Period post-Civil War marked by industrialization and social upheaval.

    Realism

    Literary style aiming to represent everyday life accurately, creating an illusion of truth.

    Naturalism

    A harsher realism emphasizing determinism, shaped by heredity and environment.

    Mimesis

    Concept of art as an imitation of reality discussed by Plato and Aristotle.

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    Neo-realism

    Literary movement emphasizing realism while incorporating modern complexities and perspectives.

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    Local Color/Regionalism

    Literary focus on specific regional dialects, customs, and landscapes in the U.S.

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    Social Darwinism

    Application of Darwin's theories to society, supporting the idea of survival based on societal conditions.

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    Robber Barons

    Industrial magnates during the Gilded Age known for exploitative practices and wealth accumulation.

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    New Sincerity

    A literary response against postmodern irony, advocating for emotional depth and sincerity.

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    Alice Munro

    A key figure in Neo-Realism known for psychological realism and minimalist storytelling.

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    Postautonomous Art

    Art that engages with societal issues, market forces, and ethics rather than existing in isolation.

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    Digitalization's Impact on Literature

    Changes in reading habits and literary trends due to the rise of digital media like e-books and audiobooks.

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    Confessional Poetry

    A genre of poetry that expresses personal experiences and emotions, blurring public and private life.

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    Oral Performance

    Literary techniques combined with public performance, creating an expressive art form.

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    Hip-Hop as Literary Expression

    A fusion of rhyme, rhythm, and poetic techniques with music and performance.

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    William Dean Howells

    Key figure in realism advocating for fiction that reflects real life and everyday dialects.

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    Psychological Realism

    Focuses on the inner workings of the human mind and moral dilemmas.

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    Local Color Realism

    Depicts setting, dialect, customs, and values unique to a specific region.

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    Themes in Realism

    Explores industrial expansion, labor struggles, and disparities in rights post-Civil War.

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    Dehumanization

    A central theme in naturalism reflecting the loss of human qualities in industrial society.

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    Mark Twain

    Author known for works like 'The Adventures of Tom Sawyer' and 'Huckleberry Finn' using vernacular.

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    Upton Sinclair

    Authored 'The Jungle', exposing the exploitation of workers in the industrial age.

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    Themes of Naturalism

    Survival, poverty, instincts, and the impact of industrialization on individuals.

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    Civilization

    Survival requires both instinct and intellect, reflecting class struggle.

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    Gilded Age Inequalities

    Harsh social and economic disparities during America's Gilded Age.

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    Modernism

    A movement challenging traditional forms, embracing experimental techniques.

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    Stream of Consciousness

    Narrative technique capturing characters' inner thoughts flowing naturally.

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    Lost Generation

    Disillusioned writers post-World War I, exploring alienation themes.

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    Gertrude Stein

    Prominent modernist who hosted artists and advocated experimental literature.

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    Ernest Hemingway

    Author known for minimalist style and iceberg principle in writing.

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    The Sea Wolf

    A novel contrasting masculinity and survival through the journey of a writer.

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    Samson Occom

    A Mohegan preacher and the first Native American author to publish in English, highlighting struggles with colonization.

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    John Smith's Account

    A first-hand narrative detailing the struggles in Jamestown and interactions with Pocahontas.

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    Puritanism

    A religious reform movement emphasizing moral living, community, and strong work ethics among settlers.

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    Covenant Theology

    The belief in an agreement with God to live morally as a chosen community.

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    American Exceptionalism

    The belief that America has a unique, divine purpose to lead, often referred to as 'city on a hill.'

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    Predestination

    The doctrine that salvation or damnation is predetermined by God, regardless of one’s actions.

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    Plain Style Literature

    A writing style that emphasizes clarity and religious humility, avoiding ornate language.

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    Jeremiad

    A sermon combining lamentation, moral warning, and hope for renewal in society.

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    John Winthrop

    A key Puritan writer who described the Puritan community as a 'city on a hill' in his work.

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    Typology in Puritan Literature

    A literary strategy that sees current events as a reflection of biblical narratives.

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    Zoot Suit

    A 1978 play that addresses race and identity issues.

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    Tennessee Williams

    An American playwright known for works like The Glass Menagerie and A Streetcar Named Desire, exploring family and societal themes.

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    The Glass Menagerie

    A 1944 play by Tennessee Williams focusing on family dynamics and unfulfilled dreams.

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    Death of a Salesman

    A 1949 play by Arthur Miller critiquing the American Dream and materialism.

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    Long Day's Journey Into Night

    An autobiographical play by Eugene O’Neill that explores family crises and addiction.

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    Federal Theater Project

    A New Deal program that funded theater productions during the Great Depression, highlighting social issues.

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    Edward Albee

    A playwright known for works like Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?, exploring human isolation and absurdity.

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    Postmodern Drama

    A style that blends fact and fiction, leading to fragmented narratives and character identities.

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    Susan Glaspell

    A playwright known for feminist themes and societal critiques, notably in Trifles.

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    Experimental Performance

    A movement in theater that deviates from traditional storytelling to innovative forms and styles.

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    Study Notes

    American Literature and Culture

    • Historical context and key events are crucial for understanding the evolution of American literature.
    • Native Americans' rich traditions, stories, myths, and legends were passed down to preserve their culture and beliefs. Examples include Samson Occom's "A Short Narrative of My Life" (1768).
    • European exploration in the 15th and 16th centuries marked a significant turning point, leading to increased European interest in the New World.
    • First settlements, such as Jamestown, Virginia in 1607, led to interactions with Native Americans, documented in texts like John Smith's "A True Relation of Virginia" (1608).
    • The Puritan movement from the 17th century onward profoundly shaped American religion and identity, reflected in writings like John Winthrop's "A Model of Christian Charity" (1630).
    • The early 18th century saw the rise of Enlightenment ideals, impacting philosophies and political thought, a shift visible in Benjamin Franklin's writings and the development of the nation.
    • The 18th and 19th centuries saw evolving political ideologies, with the Declaration of Independence (1776), Treaty of Paris (1783) and the Constitution marking key milestones.
    • The development of a national American literary style and the rise of new genres.
    • Key movements like Transcendentalism (1820-1870) and the influence of Europe (e.g. Romanticism, Realism).
    • The increasing use of different literary styles, including realism, naturalism, and postmodernism.
    • Themes of national identity, regionalism, and cultural diversity reflected in literature.
    • Authors like Nathaniel Hawthorne, Herman Melville, and Walt Whitman played significant roles in developing American literary traditions.
    • The rise of African American literature, including the Harlem Renaissance, is also part of the broader American literary tradition.

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    American Literature and Culture I PDF

    Description

    Explore the key historical events and cultural influences that have shaped American literature. This quiz covers Native American traditions, European exploration, early settlements, and the impact of the Puritan movement, as well as the Enlightenment's role in literary evolution.

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