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In English 11 you have studied literature from the 1920s through the 1980s and learned about how American society changed over that time period.
literature that you have read and use them to show how literature reflects history, as well as how literature reflects changes or events throughout history. Be sure to include a brief summary of the historical time periods for each piece. Consider elements such as theme, style, and tone in your analysis.
“The Chrysanthemums”
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by John Steinbeck is a short story that was published in 1937, during the Great Depression. The story follows a woman named Elisa Allen who tends to her chrysanthemum garden with great care and passion, only to feel unfulfilled in her life as a result of the limitations placed on women in society during that time. The story reflects the struggles of women in the early 20th century to find fulfillment and purpose beyond traditional gender roles. The tone of the story is melancholic and reflective of the pervasive sense of disillusionment and stagnation that many Americans felt during the Great Depression.
Another piece of literature that reflects a different time period in American history is “A Raisin in the Sun” by Lorraine Hansberry, which was first performed in 1959. The play tells the story of a black family living in a cramped apartment on the South Side of Chicago as they struggle with issues of race, class, and identity in the 1950s. Through the characters and their interactions, the play explores the impact of racial discrimination and segregation on African Americans during the civil rights movement. The theme of the play revolves around the quest for dignity, equality, and opportunity, and the tone is both hopeful and confrontational in its depiction of the challenges faced by African Americans at the time.
Both of these works of literature offer valuable insights into the social, political, and cultural changes that took place in America during the 20th century. Through their exploration of themes such as gender identity, racial inequality, and societal expectations, they provide a window into the struggles and triumphs of individuals who lived through these transformative periods in American history. By examining the themes, styles, and tones of these pieces of literature, we can gain a deeper understanding of the ways in which literature reflects and responds to the changing dynamics of society over time.