ELEMENTS OF MODERNISM IN AMERICAN LITERATURE

•Emphasis on bold experimentation in style and form—reflects the fragmentation of society

•Rejection of traditional themes and subjects.

•Sense of disillusionment and loss of faith in the American Dream. (Modernists rejected Emerson’s optimism.)

•Rejection of the ideal of a hero as infallible in favor of a hero who is flawed and disillusioned but shows “grace under pressure” (Hemingway)

• Interest in the inner workings of the human mind. (Sometimes expressed through a new narrative technique such as stream of consciousness—William Faulkner)

Pre-reading Exercise: Friendship

Defend or reject the following statement:

The need for companionship is instinctive in people and makes them morally responsible for others.

(If necessary, use a dictionary to help you understand this statement.)

Why do people usually find it necessary to “belong” with either another person or several people or an organized group? Name at least two examples of this “person,” these “people” and/or these “organized groups.”

List things you have in common with others in your group (a group can be one person).

Discuss how others outside your group see you and your friends.

How far would you go to protect your friend(s)? Explain.

Robert Burns’ poem, “To a Mouse”