The Impact of European Colonization on American Literature
1. American literature before the European colonization
American literature is often divided into five periods, the colonial period, the eighteenth century, the nineteenth century, the modernist period, and the contemporary period. Each of these periods has its own distinct characteristics, but there are also many similarities between them.
Before the advent of settlers from Europe, American literature was spread over the vast wilderness and the literature had no known identity or culture. The first American literature was written by Native Americans, who had their own unique way of life and their own form of storytelling. Native American literature was often passed down orally from generation to generation, and it was not until the Europeans arrived that it began to be written down.
The impact of European colonization on American literature was profound. The Europeans brought with them their own language, literature, and culture, which began to mix with the existing Native American culture. This process of cultural exchange resulted in a new form of American literature that was a blend of both cultures.
One of the most important aspects of European colonization was the introduction of the printing press to America. This allowed for the dissemination of information and ideas on a much wider scale than before, and it had a huge impact on American literature. Prior to the printing press, most American literature was only available to a small number of people. But with the introduction of printing, American literature became available to a much wider audience.
Another important aspect of European colonization was the rise of Puritanism in America. The Puritans were a group of Protestants who believed in strict religious observance and they had a major impact on American culture and literature. The Puritans believed that art and literature should be didactic, meaning that they should teach moral lessons. This belief led to a great deal of religious poetry and prose being written in America during this time period.
2. The impact of European colonization on American literature
As mentioned earlier, the impact of European colonization on American literature was profound. The Europeans brought with them their own language, literature, and culture, which began to mix with the existing Native American culture. This process of cultural exchange resulted in a new form of American literature that was a blend of both cultures.
One of the most important aspects of European colonization was the introduction of the printing press to America. This allowed for the dissemination of information and ideas on a much wider scale than before, and it had a huge impact on American literature. Prior to the printing press, most American literature was only available to a small number
of people. But with the introduction of printing, American literature became available to a much wider audience.
Another important aspect of European colonization was the rise of Puritanism in America. The Puritans were a group of Protestants who believed in strict religious observance and they had a major impact on American culture and literature. The Puritans believed that art and literature should be didactic, meaning that they should teach moral lessons. This belief led to a great deal of religious poetry and prose being written in America during this time period.
3. American literature in the 18th century
The eighteenth century was a time of great change in America. The colonies were gaining more independence from England, and there was a growing movement towards democracy. This new spirit of freedom and democracy was reflected in the literature of the time.
One of the most important literary figures of the eighteenth century was Benjamin Franklin. Franklin was a printer, publisher, scientist, inventor, and diplomat. He was also one of the most important writers of his time. Franklin’s writing was very influential in shaping the American identity. His most famous work is “The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin,” which is an account of his life and times.
Another important figure in eighteenth-century American literature was Phillis Wheatley. Wheatley was an African American woman who was born into slavery. Despite her humble beginnings, she became one of the most respected poets of her time. Her poetry often touched on themes of religion and morality, and she is credited with helping to shape the African American literary tradition.
4. American literature in the 19th century
The nineteenth century was a time of great literary achievement in America. This period is often referred to as the “Golden Age” of American literature. During this time, many great writers emerged, who helped to shape the American literary tradition.
One of the most important writers of the nineteenth century was Edgar Allan Poe. Poe was a poet, short story writer, and critic. He is best known for his dark and Gothic tales, which often explore themes of death and madness. Poe’s writing had a major impact on future generations of writers, and he is considered to be one of the fathers of horror fiction.
Another important figure in nineteenth-century American literature was Mark Twain. Twain was a humorist and novelist, who is best known for his book “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.” “Huckleberry Finn” is widely regarded as one of the greatest American novels ever written. It tells the story of a young boy’s journey down the Mississippi River, and it is filled with humor and insight into human nature. Twain’s writing helped to define what it means to be an American writer. F Scott Fitzgerald was an author known for his novels about wealthy Americans during the Jazz Age (1920s). A lot fitzgerald’s work is semi-autobiographical about his own life experiences.He would parties and drink heavily which would ultimately lead to him having a mental breakdown and being hospitalized. During this time he wrote “Tender is The Night” which is based off his marriage struggles. Even though his works were popular among readers,they weren’t well received by critics. In 1937 he died due alcoholism at age 44.
5. American literature in the 20th century
The twentieth century was a time of great change in America. This period saw two world wars, the Great Depression, the Civil Rights movement, and many other important historical events. These events had a profound impact on American literature.
One of the most important writers of the twentieth century was Ernest Hemingway. Hemingway was a novelist and short story writer, who is best known for his works “The Sun Also Rises” and “For Whom the Bell Tolls.” Hemingway’s writing is characterized by its simplicity and directness. He is considered to be one of the most important American writers of the twentieth century.
Another important figure in twentieth-century American literature was William Faulkner. Faulkner was a novelist and short story writer, who is best known for his book “The Sound and the Fury.” Faulkner’s writing is characterized by its complex structure and its use of stream-of-consciousness. He is considered to be one of the most important American writers of the twentieth century.
In conclusion, American literature has been shaped by the many historical events that have occurred in America. From the early days of Native American literature to the present day, American literature has reflected the changing face of America.