15.1 Comparative Analysis of Major Themes and Movements
4 min read•july 25, 2024
American literature evolved dramatically from colonial times to the 19th century. Early works focused on religious devotion and exploration, while revolutionary literature championed liberty and national identity. Later, themes of , , and took center stage.
Literary movements like and shaped writing across the Americas. North American authors explored the psyche and everyday life, while Latin American writers celebrated cultural heritage and regional uniqueness. These movements reflected changing societal values and concerns.
Thematic Evolution in American Literature
Themes in early American literature
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- Colonial literature themes
- Religious devotion and divine providence shaped Puritan writings emphasized moral instruction and spiritual guidance (sermons, journals)
- Exploration and settlement narratives documented new world experiences and challenges (travel accounts, captivity narratives)
- Encounters with indigenous peoples recorded cultural exchanges and conflicts (conversion narratives, ethnographic accounts)
- Revolutionary literature themes
- Liberty and independence ideals fueled political writings and patriotic (Common Sense, Declaration of Independence)
- Political ideology debates explored governance models and individual rights (Federalist Papers, Anti-Federalist writings)
- Patriotism and national identity forged through historical accounts and symbolic literature (poetry, songs)
- 19th-century literature themes
- Individualism and self-reliance celebrated personal autonomy and nonconformity (, Self-Reliance)
- Nature and the frontier romanticized wilderness and westward expansion (, O Pioneers!)
- Social reform and abolition addressed societal issues and human rights (, The Jungle)
- Industrialization and progress examined technological advancements and societal changes (Looking Backward, Progress and Poverty)
Literary movements across the Americas
- Romanticism in North America
- Emphasis on nature and the sublime elevated landscapes and emotional experiences (, )
- Exploration of the individual psyche delved into human consciousness and imagination (The Fall of the House of Usher, )
- as a unique American philosophy promoted self-reliance and spiritual connection with nature (Nature, Walden)
- Romanticism in Latin America
- Focus on national identity and independence celebrated cultural heritage and political autonomy (, )
- Incorporation of indigenous and African cultural elements blended diverse traditions (Tradiciones peruanas, )
- Emphasis on local landscapes and traditions highlighted regional uniqueness (María, Iracema)
- Realism in North America
- Portrayal of everyday life and common people depicted social realities (, Sister Carrie)
- Critique of social issues and injustices exposed societal problems (, The Jungle)
- Regional variations explored distinct cultural identities (, New England realism)
- Realism in Latin America
- Exploration of post-colonial society and politics examined national challenges (Facundo, Os Sertões)
- Depiction of rural life and social hierarchies portrayed class struggles (, Los de abajo)
- Incorporation of local dialects and customs preserved linguistic and cultural diversity (, Doña Bárbara)
Literary Influences and Cultural Impact
European influence on American writing
- Puritan influence on early American literature
- Spiritual autobiographies and sermons emphasized personal faith journeys and moral instruction (The Pilgrim's Progress, Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God)
- Adaptation of allegorical writing conveyed religious messages through (The Day of Doom)
- Enlightenment ideas in revolutionary writings
- Political pamphlets and essays argued for independence and democratic ideals (Common Sense, The Federalist Papers)
- Rational approach to governance and society influenced constitutional frameworks and social reforms
- Romantic movement adaptations
- American Gothic literature explored dark themes and psychological depth (The Fall of the House of Usher, The Scarlet Letter)
- Nature writing and the concept of the sublime celebrated American landscapes and transcendent experiences (Walden, Leaves of Grass)
- Realist and naturalist influences
- Social critique and documentation exposed societal issues and inequalities (The Rise of Silas Lapham, Maggie: A Girl of the Streets)
- Scientific and deterministic approaches to character and plot explored human behavior and environmental influences (McTeague, The Red Badge of Courage)
Literature's role in national identity
- Literature as a tool for nation-building
- Creation of national myths and heroes fostered patriotic sentiment (The Last of the Mohicans, The Song of Hiawatha)
- Exploration of unique American experiences and landscapes defined cultural identity (The Oregon Trail, Adventures of Huckleberry Finn)
- Representation of diverse voices and experiences
- Indigenous perspectives in literature preserved native traditions and histories (Black Elk Speaks, The Surrounded)
- African American and slave narratives exposed the realities of slavery and racism (, Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl)
- Literature as social commentary and reform
- Abolitionist writings galvanized anti-slavery movements (Uncle Tom's Cabin, Appeal to the Colored Citizens of the World)
- Women's rights and suffrage literature advocated for gender equality (The Yellow Wallpaper, Woman in the Nineteenth Century)
- Cultural values reflected in literature
- Work ethic and self-reliance promoted individual responsibility and success (Poor Richard's Almanack, Self-Reliance)
- Frontier spirit and justified westward expansion and national growth (O Pioneers!, The Virginian)
- Democratic ideals and individual liberty underscored political and social aspirations (Democracy in America, Civil Disobedience)
Key Terms to Review (33)
Allegory: Allegory is a literary device where characters, events, and details represent abstract ideas or moral qualities, often conveying deeper meanings beyond the literal interpretation. It allows authors to comment on complex social, political, or moral issues by using symbolic figures and actions, creating a rich tapestry of meaning that resonates on multiple levels.
American Exceptionalism: American exceptionalism is the belief that the United States is inherently different from other nations, often characterized by a sense of mission to promote democracy and freedom. This concept suggests that America has a unique role in history, influenced by its foundational principles of liberty, individualism, and egalitarianism, and is often linked to themes of nationalism and moral superiority.
Cecilia Valdés: Cecilia Valdés is a novel written by Cirilo Villaverde in 1882 that portrays the complex social and racial dynamics of 19th-century Cuba. The story revolves around the titular character, Cecilia, who is of mixed race and navigates her identity in a society marked by colonial oppression, slavery, and the struggles for national identity. This novel serves as a reflection of the emerging Cuban national identity and critiques the social hierarchies that existed during this period.
Don segundo sombra: Don Segundo Sombra is a novel by Ricardo Güiraldes, published in 1926, that explores themes of rural life, tradition, and the relationship between man and nature in Argentina. This work represents an important part of Argentine literature, highlighting the gaucho culture and the connection to the land while also delving into personal growth and the passage of time.
El gaucho martín fierro: El gaucho Martín Fierro is a central character in José Hernández's epic poem, which tells the story of a gaucho who fights against oppression and represents the ideals of freedom and justice in Argentine culture. This character symbolizes the struggle of the rural gauchos in Argentina during the 19th century, reflecting their fight against societal injustices and their connection to the land.
Emily Dickinson: Emily Dickinson was a renowned American poet known for her innovative and unique style of writing, which often explored themes of death, immortality, and the inner workings of the human mind. Her poetry is characterized by its unconventional punctuation, slant rhyme, and fragmented structure, contributing significantly to the evolution of poetic forms and styles in the 19th century.
Facundo: Facundo refers to the character of Juan Facundo Quiroga, a caudillo in Argentina during the early 19th century, whose life and actions are emblematic of the broader social and political struggles in post-colonial Latin America. The narrative surrounding Facundo, especially as depicted in Domingo Faustino Sarmiento's book 'Facundo: Civilization and Barbarism', highlights the themes of civilization versus barbarism, the tension between rural and urban life, and the complexities of national identity during a period of significant transformation.
Feminist literary criticism: Feminist literary criticism is an approach that analyzes literature through the lens of gender dynamics, focusing on the representation of women, the roles they play, and the cultural contexts that shape these narratives. This critical perspective aims to reveal the ways in which literature reflects, reinforces, or challenges societal norms regarding gender, highlighting issues such as patriarchy, oppression, and identity. By examining texts with an awareness of the historical and cultural power relations between genders, this criticism opens up discussions about women's voices and experiences in literature.
Gothic fiction: Gothic fiction is a genre of literature characterized by its exploration of the dark, mysterious, and supernatural elements, often set in decaying castles or eerie landscapes. This genre delves into themes of horror, the uncanny, and the psychological depths of its characters, reflecting societal fears and anxieties during its rise in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Individualism: Individualism is a social and philosophical concept that emphasizes the moral worth of the individual, advocating for personal independence and self-reliance. This idea plays a crucial role in literature, particularly in highlighting characters' personal struggles, desires, and unique perspectives, often contrasting them with societal norms and expectations.
Manifest destiny: Manifest destiny is the 19th-century doctrine that the expansion of the United States across the American continents was both justified and inevitable. This belief fueled American nationalism and a sense of superiority, leading to significant cultural and territorial transformations, particularly in literature, politics, and interactions with Indigenous peoples.
Martín Fierro: Martín Fierro is an epic poem written by Argentine author José Hernández, published in two parts in 1872 and 1879. It tells the story of a gaucho named Martín Fierro who is forced into conscription, highlighting themes of resistance, social injustice, and national identity. The poem serves as a significant cultural symbol in Argentina, reflecting the struggles of the gauchos and their role in shaping the country's emerging national identity.
Moby-Dick: Moby-Dick is a novel written by Herman Melville, published in 1851, that tells the story of Ishmael, a sailor aboard the whaling ship Pequod, led by the obsessive Captain Ahab, who is on a relentless quest to kill the titular white whale. This novel reflects significant historical and cultural themes of 19th-century America, such as the whaling industry, the struggle against nature, and the search for meaning in an increasingly industrialized world.
Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass: The Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass is an autobiography published in 1845, chronicling the life of Frederick Douglass, an escaped slave who became a prominent activist, orator, and writer. This work is significant as it highlights the brutal realities of slavery while advocating for abolition and human rights, reflecting broader themes in American literature such as individual freedom, social justice, and the quest for identity.
Nathaniel Hawthorne: Nathaniel Hawthorne was an American novelist and short story writer known for his dark romanticism and exploration of themes such as sin, guilt, and the complexities of human nature. His works often reflect a fascination with moral ambiguity and the effects of the past on the present, placing him as a significant figure in American literature before 1900.
Nature: Nature refers to the physical world and its phenomena, including landscapes, flora, fauna, and the environment. In literature, it often symbolizes beauty, tranquility, and the sublime, while also reflecting human emotions and experiences. The depiction of nature in literary works can serve as a backdrop for character development, thematic exploration, and social commentary.
New Criticism: New Criticism is a formalist approach to literary analysis that emerged in the early to mid-20th century, emphasizing close reading of texts without considering external factors like author intention or historical context. This method focuses on the structure, language, and meaning within the text itself, promoting an objective analysis of literary works.
Poetry: Poetry is a literary form that expresses ideas, emotions, or stories through the use of rhythmic and often metaphorical language. It can vary in structure, from free verse to traditional forms like sonnets, and is characterized by its use of imagery, sound devices, and figurative language. In various historical contexts, poetry has served as a means of personal expression, cultural reflection, and moral instruction.
Realism: Realism is a literary movement that emerged in the mid-19th century, characterized by a focus on representing everyday life and society without idealization or romanticism. This movement aimed to depict ordinary characters and events in a truthful manner, emphasizing the mundane realities of life, including social issues, human struggles, and the complexity of individual experiences.
Regionalism: Regionalism is a literary movement that emphasizes the specific characteristics, culture, and lifestyle of a particular geographical area, often capturing the unique dialects, customs, and values of its inhabitants. This movement plays a significant role in shaping national identities, reflecting the diversity of experiences across different regions and contributing to the broader themes and styles in American literature before 1900.
Romanticism: Romanticism was a cultural, artistic, and literary movement that emerged in the late 18th century and flourished throughout the 19th century, emphasizing emotion, individualism, and nature as a response to the industrial revolution and the rationalism of the Enlightenment. It prioritized personal experience and intuition over classical forms, leading to a rich exploration of identity and the human condition.
Social Reform: Social reform refers to organized efforts aimed at improving societal conditions and addressing injustices, often through changes in laws, policies, or cultural practices. It encompasses a variety of movements that seek to promote social justice, equality, and improved quality of life for marginalized or oppressed groups.
Southern Gothic: Southern Gothic is a subgenre of Gothic fiction that explores the dark and eerie aspects of life in the Southern United States. It often incorporates themes of decay, social issues, and grotesque characters, revealing the complexities of the South's history and culture. This genre connects deeply with regional identity, showcasing the interplay between setting, character, and social commentary.
Symbolism: Symbolism is the use of symbols to represent ideas, qualities, or concepts that go beyond their literal meaning. It allows authors to convey deeper meanings and evoke emotions, often connecting themes and enhancing the reader's experience through a richer understanding of the text.
Thanatopsis: Thanatopsis is a poem written by William Cullen Bryant that meditates on death and the natural world, encouraging readers to contemplate their own mortality in a reflective and philosophical manner. The work conveys a sense of peace regarding death, suggesting it as a natural part of life rather than something to be feared. This perspective aligns with key themes in American literature that explore human existence, nature, and the afterlife.
The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn: The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is a novel written by Mark Twain, published in 1884, that follows the journey of a young boy named Huck as he travels down the Mississippi River. The story is known for its exploration of themes such as race, identity, and moral growth, as Huck grapples with societal norms and his own conscience while befriending Jim, an escaped slave. This novel stands as a significant piece of American literature that reflects the complexities of pre-Civil War America.
The American Renaissance: The American Renaissance refers to a period in the mid-19th century characterized by a flourishing of literature, art, and culture in the United States, often seen as a response to the country's expanding identity. This era highlighted themes of individualism, nature, and the exploration of American identity, leading to significant works from writers such as Emerson, Thoreau, and Whitman.
The Last of the Mohicans: The Last of the Mohicans is a historical novel written by James Fenimore Cooper, published in 1826. Set during the French and Indian War, it tells the story of a group of characters, including Native Americans and European settlers, who navigate the dangers and complexities of conflict in North America. The novel explores themes of survival, cultural conflict, and the impact of colonization, reflecting important movements in American literature.
The Rise of Silas Lapham: The Rise of Silas Lapham is a novel written by William Dean Howells, first published in 1885, that explores the complexities of American society and the challenges of self-made wealth during the Gilded Age. The story follows Silas Lapham, a successful paint manufacturer, as he navigates social class, personal ambition, and moral dilemmas, ultimately questioning the true meaning of success in a rapidly changing world.
The Scarlet Letter: The Scarlet Letter is a novel written by Nathaniel Hawthorne, published in 1850, that explores themes of sin, guilt, and redemption in Puritan New England. This work reflects key movements in American literature, particularly Romanticism and Transcendentalism, highlighting the conflict between individual morality and societal norms.
Transcendentalism: Transcendentalism is a philosophical and literary movement that emerged in the early 19th century in America, emphasizing the inherent goodness of people and nature, as well as the belief in self-reliance and individual intuition as the primary sources of knowledge. This movement arose as a reaction against the rationalism of the Enlightenment and the materialism of society, asserting that individuals could transcend the limits of the physical world through personal insight and spiritual experience.
Uncle Tom's Cabin: Uncle Tom's Cabin is a novel written by Harriet Beecher Stowe, published in 1852, that depicts the harsh realities of slavery and its moral implications. This work played a crucial role in shaping public opinion about slavery in America, contributing to the abolitionist movement and influencing cultural and social discourse surrounding race and humanity.
Walden: Walden is a book by Henry David Thoreau, published in 1854, that details his experiment of living simply and self-sufficiently in a cabin he built near Walden Pond in Concord, Massachusetts. It reflects themes of nature, individualism, and transcendentalism, highlighting the importance of personal introspection and a deeper connection to the natural world.