Henry James: Literary Style and Themes
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Questions and Answers

Which of the following best describes Henry James's view of the novel, as expressed in 'Criticism and Fiction'?

  • A detailed analysis of social structures, akin to a sociological study.
  • A direct, personal impression of life, shaped by the author's individual perspective. (correct)
  • An objective representation of historical events and their impact on society.
  • A romanticized depiction of reality, focused on idealizing emotions and experiences.

What is a central theme or motif commonly found in Henry James's works?

  • The celebration of ordinary language and everyday experiences in America.
  • The glorification of American exceptionalism and its unique values.
  • An exploration of the social wounds and struggles within American society.
  • The contrast between American and European cultures and values. (correct)

How did Henry James's exposure to European writers like Turgenev, Maupassant, Flaubert, and Zola influence his work?

  • It led him to focus exclusively on depicting American social issues and ignoring European themes.
  • It encouraged him to adopt a purely objective and detached narrative style.
  • It broadened his perspective and contributed to his exploration of psychological realism. (correct)
  • It reinforced his commitment to romanticizing American history and culture.

Which of the following reflects the perspective of Realism in novels?

<p>Using ordinary language to depict events. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the 'stream of consciousness' technique, associated with William James, relate to Henry James's literary approach?

<p>It influenced his focus on the mental and psychological development of characters. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What motivated Henry James to become a British subject in 1915?

<p>An increasing attraction to European culture. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which element is most characteristic of a novel perceived as a 'sociological document'?

<p>A detailed depiction of social issues and societal structures. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which literary movement emphasizes feelings, emotions, and idealized experiences?

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

Which of the following themes is more likely to be found in Realist novels versus Romantic novels?

<p>Depiction of social wounds. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Henry James's status as an expatriate relate to his literary work?

<p>It provided him with a unique perspective for exploring the contrasts between cultures. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which narrative technique is employed when the reader infers Winterbourne's thoughts without explicit narration?

<p>Narrator's voice conveying qualities of the character with ambiguous emotions. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the content primarily depict the American aristocracy?

<p>As a group characterized by its rigid adherence to tradition and social norms. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which character group in the content is portrayed to represent the American 'new rich'?

<p>Daisy Miller, Randolph Miller, Mrs. Miller, and Mr. Miller. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary effect of employing external narration focalized through Winterbourne?

<p>It limits the reader's perspective to Winterbourne's perceptions and biases. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following characterization methods relies most heavily on direct dialogue between characters?

<p>Character revelation through their own voice and actions. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the content suggest about the aristocracy's place in a free-market economy?

<p>It is anachronistic, struggling to maintain relevance. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do the dialogues contribute to the characterization of the protagonists?

<p>By presenting direct interactions that highlight traits and relationships. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What can be inferred from the depiction of 'social relations and the international theme'?

<p>A complex interplay of contrasting values and social hierarchies. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of the provided content, what does Daisy Miller's behavior primarily symbolize regarding American identity?

<p>The resistance to established social conventions and the pursuit of individual freedom, particularly for American women. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Daisy Miller's character contribute to the broader national debate of her time?

<p>By sparking conversation around women’s rights, female activism, and resistance to societal decorum. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary tragic flaw, or 'hamartia,' associated with Daisy Miller in the novella?

<p>Her naiveté and disregard for European social customs stemming from her 'freer' American upbringing. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the interpretation of Daisy Miller's resistance to European standards?

<p>An affirmation of American natural vitality and a challenge to the constraints imposed by European social conventions. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Considering the societal context described, what is the likely significance of Daisy Miller being labeled a 'Walker'?

<p>It implies that she needs to overtly display and perform her family's wealth. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Daisy Miller's interactions and dialogues, such as her declaration about not letting gentlemen dictate to her, primarily serve to highlight:

<p>The tensions between individual autonomy and social expectations, especially for women. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the implicit commentary of Daisy Miller's hamartia in relation to societal expectations?

<p>It questions the societal constraints placed on individuals, suggesting that a freer spirit can be a tragic flaw in certain contexts. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the novella "Daisy Miller" engage with the 'international theme'?

<p>By exploring the cultural clashes and misunderstandings that arise when Americans interact with European social customs and expectations. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of these elements is most closely associated with Stephen Crane's novel, Maggie: A Girl of the Streets?

<p>Pioneering work of American literary naturalism. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic that distinguishes The Red Badge of Courage from Crane's other works, like Maggie: A Girl of the Streets?

<p>Its use of impressionism rather than naturalism. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did Stephen Crane's experience as a war correspondent influence his literary work?

<p>It provided firsthand experiences that informed his realistic portrayals of conflict and human nature. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of these statements best describes Stephen Crane's place within literary movements of his time?

<p>He was in a transitional phase from realism to modernism. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did Darwin's work challenge traditional views of human nature?

<p>By suggesting that humans are subject to primal instincts and the struggle for survival, similar to animals. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does social Darwinism manifest as a theme in Stephen Crane's works?

<p>It critiques the ruthless economic inequalities within American society. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What narrative technique was Stephen Crane particularly interested in exploring, especially in The Red Badge of Courage?

<p>Reproducing the subjective and personal perception of reality. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the core principle of Social Darwinism as proposed by Herbert Spencer?

<p>The belief that societal progress is achieved through the 'survival of the fittest'. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key difference between Darwin's theory of evolution and the teleological view of history?

<p>Darwin's theory focuses on adaptation to environmental pressures, while teleology suggests a goal-oriented trajectory. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which experience most directly inspired Stephen Crane's short story, "The Open Boat"?

<p>His own shipwreck and survival at sea. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How was Social Darwinism used in the context of national identity and expansion in the United States?

<p>To justify beliefs in American exceptionalism. For example, Manifest destiny, and the superiority of American culture. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant personal challenge Stephen Crane faced during his literary career?

<p>Scandal due to his living situation. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements best reflects Rockefeller's justification of wealth through Social Darwinism?

<p>The success of the wealthy benefits society as a whole, justifying the sacrifices of others. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the stance of figures like Josiah C. Nott and George Gliddon regarding Social Darwinism?

<p>They used it to argue for the inherent superiority of certain cultures and races. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the concept of 'struggle' relate to both Darwin's original theory and Social Darwinism?

<p>Both involve competition for limited resources, driving natural selection and societal advancement. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following outcomes is the LEAST likely result of the application of Social Darwinism to social stratification?

<p>Increased support for policies that promote social welfare and redistribute wealth. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In The Great Gatsby, how does the memory of the Great War contrast with the prevailing atmosphere of the 1920s?

<p>It serves as a subtle reminder of the fragility of life and the underlying disillusionment beneath the surface of the Jazz Age. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Gatsby's pursuit of Daisy complicate or challenge the traditional understanding of the American Dream?

<p>It reveals that the American Dream can be distorted into the pursuit of an unattainable past, rather than future success. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In The Great Gatsby, how does the contrast between the pastoral/natural world and the modern/mechanized world contribute to the novel's themes?

<p>It symbolizes the loss of innocence and the corruption of traditional values in the face of industrial progress. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If Gatsby is an "unworthy Grail quester", what does this suggest about his pursuit of the American Dream and Daisy?

<p>He is destined to fail because his motivations are impure and his methods are flawed. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Nick Carraway's perspective as an outsider observing the events of The Great Gatsby shape the reader's understanding of the characters and their motivations?

<p>It allows for a nuanced and subjective portrayal of the characters, influenced by Nick's own values and experiences. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Novel as Sociological Document

Novels can serve as sociological documents, akin to news reports but with added story and plot elements to engage readers.

Novel as Romance

Novels can present idealized or romanticized versions of life, focusing on positive aspects and achievements.

Romanticism

Emphasizes feelings and emotions in literature and art.

Realism

Focuses on portraying the world accurately, using ordinary language and depicting everyday life.

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Novel's Depiction of Social Wounds

Highlights the struggles and social issues within a specific country, often with an emphasis on American society.

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Henry James

An American author (1843-1916) known for exploring the contrast between US and European culture.

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Stream of Consciousness

A writing style that explores a character's thoughts and feelings in a continuous, associative manner.

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Mental Development of Characters

Henry James focused on the psychological and mental growth of his characters throughout his stories.

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Expatriate

A person who lives outside their native country.

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Naturalism (in Literature)

Literary movement emphasizing scientific observation and the depiction of harsh realities. Zola was a pioneer.

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Narrator's Voice in the Text

The narrator's perspective reveals character qualities and ambiguous emotions without explicitly stating them.

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Real Characters

Americans living in Europe.

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American Aristocracy

Represented by Winterbourne, Costello, and Mrs. Walker.

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“New Rich” Americans

The Millers (Daisy, Randolph, Mrs. Miller and Mr. Miller).

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External Characterization

Includes the narrative voice focalized through Winterbourne.

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Characterization Through Others

Revealed through other characters' words and descriptions.

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Character's Voice

Revealed through dialogue and actions.

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Aristocracy's Role

Represents the shift from traditional aristocracy.

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Walkers (in context)

Represented earlier Republican and Jeffersonian values; included judges from various classes.

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National Society (new middle class)

The rising middle class in the US driven by capitalist growth.

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National Society (traditional aristocracy)

The established upper class with connections to European traditions and social circles.

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Gender relations and women's rights movement

A central theme involving the roles, expectations, and rights of women in society. Often questioned traditional norms and expectations.

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Daisy Miller

The central character in a notable work, used to explore themes of social norms and expectations.

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Display of Wealth (by Walkers)

The need to perform, display, and express wealth, especially by those newly acquiring it.

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Cult of Domesticity

A set of beliefs that emphasized women's roles within the home and family.

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American Natural Vitality

American ideal of being naturally vibrant, free, and innocent – especially when contrasted with European social structures.

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Darwin's Impact

Darwin challenged the idea that humans are purely rational and highlighted the importance of animal instincts.

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Struggle for Life

The ongoing competition among organisms for essential resources.

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Natural Selection

The process where organisms best adapted to their environment tend to survive and reproduce.

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Social Darwinism

Applying Darwin's theory to human society. The idea that society progresses through competition where the 'fittest' individuals or groups rise to the top.

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Herbert Spencer

Herbert Spencer's concept applying Darwinism to society. He argued that societal progress occurs through natural selection, where stronger individuals or groups thrive.

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Teleological Move of History

The belief that history has a predetermined objective or end goal.

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Social Stratification Justification

The belief that rich deserve their wealth because they are the most fit.

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Manifest Destiny

A phrase suggesting that America was destined to expand its dominion and spread democracy and capitalism across the entire North American continent.

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Binary Oppositions

Contrasting concepts highlighting conflict. Example: war vs. peace.

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American Dream (Meritocratic Spirit)

The ideal of upward mobility through hard work. Achieving success from humble beginnings.

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American Dream (love)

The dream can be more then becoming rich, or just an obsession with materialisim. It can involve love.

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Impossibility of Recuperation

The impossibility of returning to or recreating the past, or lost values.

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Pastoral vs. Modern World

The contrast between an idealized, simple rural life and the complex, often corrupt modern world.

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Stephen Crane

American author (1871-1900), known for naturalistic novels and war correspondence.

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Maggie: A Girl of the Streets

Crane's novel about tenement life, considered the first naturalistic novel in the USA.

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The Red Badge of Courage

Crane's famous novel, departs from naturalism, uses impressionism to depict the psychological experience of a Civil War soldier.

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Impressionism (in literature)

A literary movement interested in reproducing the human capacity to perceive reality.

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Stephen Crane's Scandal

Living with a former brothel owner

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Social Darwinism in Crane's work

The belief that only the economically fittest survive in American society.

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"The Open Boat"

Crane's short story based on his real-life experience of surviving a shipwreck.

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Study Notes

  • The provided text appears to be study notes for a North American literature course, specifically focusing on Realism and Naturalism.
  • It covers historical and cultural context, literary themes, key authors and their works, and relevant literary techniques

Historical and Cultural Context (1865-1914)

  • Significant economic growth occurred, but the gap between wealth and poverty widened considerably.
  • Modernization saw America transform from an agrarian to an industrial society.
  • Transportation improved, with transcontinental railroads and tripled railway lines.
  • There was access to abundant natural resources used for production.
  • Inventions such as the typewriter, telephone, and radio emerged swiftly following the Civil War.
  • The Philadelphia Exhibition in 1876 showed US technological advances.
  • The Chicago World Fair in 1893 was a display of technological inventions and national pride.
  • In 1885, the Home Insurance Building in Chicago became the first skyscraper.
  • Brooklyn Bridge finished 1883 combined technology and architecture.
  • Significant social transformation occurred, with the population doubling and an increase in immigration.
  • There was a rise of labor unions, and workers' rights movements.
  • Social polarization and stratification occurred, with growth and increased wealth amid rising poverty.
  • The term robber barons is used to describe wealthy individuals of the 19th century.

Literary Themes and Techniques

  • Scientific discoveries, for example Darwin's theory of evolution and thermodynamics, impacted literature.
  • Key values shift is from solidarity to individualism with the rise of capitalism.
  • A positive side effect of well-being and comfortable life are seen.
  • Negative side effects such as corruption and opportunism are explored.
  • Focus on the self-made man, using Howells' The Rise of Silas Lapham as a example.
  • Some literature reacted against industrialization or social issues, example Sinclair and Dreiser.
  • A new focus emerged on the city, portraying Chicago's reconstruction after the Great Fire.
  • Contrast between popular culture against elitist culture appeared.
  • US versus Europe becomes a point of comparison.
  • Commercialization and mass production in the literary industry.
  • Focus on regional themes, romance, and domestic issues began to grow in popularity.
  • The English form of literature shifted leading to a more U.S-focused style.

US Realism

  • US realism is a transition between Romanticism and Modernism.
  • Realism is defined as "nothing more and nothing less than the truth".
  • Prominent writers include Mark Twain, William D. Howells, and Henry James.
  • Classical Realism was used by William Dean Howells.

William Dean Howells

  • Sought to promote American writers and writing.
  • Transitioned literature from "telling" to "showing".
  • Developed democratization of literature, making it more accessible.
  • Served as editor of the Atlantic Monthly from 1871-81
  • Novels were based around business and morality with a mode of social observation.

Henry James

  • Was influenced by Turgenev, Maupassant, Flaubert, and Zola
  • A novelists must picture daily life precisely and with proportion.
  • Novels reflect a personal impression rather than an objective interpretation.
  • Works often contrasted American and European characters.
  • Used sustained internal focalization; center character's ideologies shape story view.
  • The moods and rituals of the upper classes become an important topic.

Naturalism

  • Lower classes and the transformations contrasts became a theme.
  • Chicago was one of the most important cities together with New York.
  • Many people attended The World's Columbian Exposition.
  • The Pullman Era saw high wages, with the first time low classes compared to middle class.
  • Some writers focus their work in criticizing bad working and living conditions.
  • Themes used include bad working and living conditions.
  • Darwinism states survival of the fittest, and impacted thoughts about society.
  • The lack of balance between civilization and instincts was portrayed.
  • American naturalists included Frank Norris, Theodore Dreiser and Jack London.

Stephen Crane

  • 1871-1900 was a reporter, exploring tenement housing, liquor, and poverty
  • His book, Maggie: A Girl of the Streets focused on the struggle for survival and the city
  • Emphasized the impacts the environment.

The Jazz Age & The American Dream

  • WWI affected people, leading to the "lost generation".
  • Disillusionment impacted the values during this era.
  • The Jazz Age, an era of consumerism, showed consumer status with social activities.
  • Presidents Harding, Coolidge and Hoover favored conservative policy.
  • Prohibition 1920-33 made alcohol illegal to make and sell, however it cause speakeasies and gang activity
  • A shift in the woman in society started occurring, with self conception and flappers starting to emerge
  • End of 19th century brought the billboards
  • In the 1920s, there were film, radio and magazines
  • "Differences in ideologies": Realism is questioned responsibilities.

The Great Gatsby, F. Scott Fitzgerald

  • The voice of the post Victorian generation was chronicled in this book
  • Explores binary oppositions with happy and unhappy environments in the 1920's
  • The pastoral or normal against a modern mechanized world
  • The american dream shifts from merit to corruption
  • Christianity faces socioeconomic circumstances

William Carlos Williams

  • Explored international and native styles in his works
  • wanted more focus on what a normal American citizen was
  • used everyday, simple terms
  • poetic form = spontaneous improvisation
  • He liked working towards social and political activism.

Ezra Pound

  • His main 2 periods were The Pound period and the Amygism
  • 3 main principles were used:
    • Concreteness: image, no description, no ornaments, direct.
    • Economy (of words): as few wards as possible.
    • Free verse: no metrical pattern, musicality comes from language.
  • The image is representation of "thing", that involves response from the reader

The 1930s

  • He found influence and help with international and native styles
  • Radical American poets were being represented

The Harlem Renaissance

  • African American artists demonstrated their ability
  • Time impacted the cultural consciousness and political commitment.

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Description

Explore Henry James's literary approach and how European writers influenced his work. Understand central themes, motifs, and his view of the novel, Realism, and the 'stream of consciousness' technique. Also, determine how his status as an expatriate relates to his literary work.

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