The topic of creating “American Literature” is an undercurrent throughout this e
The topic of creating “American Literature” is an undercurrent throughout this entire course. Early American writers were not only trying to produce good writing, but many were trying to create literature that was distinctly “American.” In essence, many of the works we have had this semester set out to define a culture, but how does one accomplish that? For the research essay for this class, write a 5-7 page essay (minimum 1500 words) that discusses which author most successfully defines his or her culture (it can be any of the works in the two anthologies, but I recommend one that we have gone over in class). You will want to consider several literary elements of the pieces such as imagery, character, tone, plot, metaphor or simile in your discussion. In addition, you may want to contrast it with other works that we have had this semester in order to demonstrate how your work is the most successful.
As you look at the piece you have chosen, consider the critical elements of society and culture presented in the work and how that work defines that culture. One of the things you may want to consider is the manner in which the work is presented to the reader. Does the historical period affect the way the author presents his or her culture? What is important to this author? Religion? Finding oneself? Something else? Is the picture of the culture that the author presents realistic? Unrealistic? Does the work define a culture unintentionally? Intentionally? What literary elements (extended metaphor, satire, hyperbole, etc.) does the author use in their work and how does that affect the way we see the culture that the author is trying to define? This does not have to be a large culture, but it could be:
A micro-culture like the seamen on a ship
A small community
A religious culture
A culture of commerce
A culture of manhood / womanhood
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