Mark Twain is one of the most influential American authors of all time. Many of his works set the standard for the genre they are in and his memoir “Two Views of the River” is no different. This work displays all of the important characteristics of a work of Regionalism, which is a genre that Mark Twain was one of the best at writing in. He pays close attention to the setting which is the most important characteristic of Regionalism with very vivid descriptions of the many different aspects of the setting. He then uses this setting to connect the main idea or universal theme of the story. In this story specifically, the theme becomes the psychological change in value of the river for Twain from his years on steamboats. With the importance of the setting, authors of the genre of Regionalism often focus on how the character, or in this specific work the author himself, interact with the environment. There is also use of figurative language to compare how he feels about the change in value. Mark Twain uses all of these characteristics in his memoir “Two Views of the River” to exemplify the literary genre of Regionalism.
The first thing one notices upon reading Twain’s “Two Views of the River” is the extremely vivid descriptions of the setting. The setting is the most important part of a work of Regionalism, as it sets the basis for all other aspects of the story (Anderson). Twain accomplishes this in the first paragraph of the work as he describes the river as “turned to blood,” the surface of the water “broken by boiling, tumbling rings,” and many other aspects of the surroundings on the boat (Twain 504). These vivid descriptions allow the reader to understand what the setting looks like for the author, and this is important because he later explains his change in opinion for these different natural beauties of the river.
In Regionalism literature, the setting is important because the author uses it to connect the universal theme of the entire work (Anderson). Twain does this by comparing how he viewed the river when he started working on steamboats to how he felt later in his life about the exact same situation. At first, he addresses all of the natural beauty of the river as just that… natural beauty, but later when viewing the same things, they serve as a means of reading the river (Twain). This becomes the universal theme of the entire work that people gain new perspectives on life as they become accustomed to it.
Another characteristic of Regionalism literature used in Twain’s memoir is figurative language, which was a very common literary device used in all of Realism (Anderson). At the end of the story, he describes a doctor that sees a woman and some sort of beauty mark that she has on her cheek. Before becoming a doctor, it is viewed solely as a sign of beauty, but after studying medicine, it simply becomes a symptom for some sort of disease (Twain 505). This is a direct comparison that concludes the personal feelings that Twain used to have and now has for the river.
A strong setting is the most important part of a work of Regionalism and Mark Twain uses this in almost all of his great works. This setting is then used to create a theme, as Twain did with his change in appreciation for the beauty of the river over time. Also, figurative language is a common characteristic of Regionalism and Realism that Twain uses with his comparison of the doctor seeing a beauty mark as a symptom rather than what it truly is. All of these characteristics are what make Mark Twain’s memoir “Two Views of the River” and many of his other stories great work of Regionalism.
Works Cited
Anderson, George P., Judith S. Baughman, Matthew J. Bruccoli, and Carl Rollyson, eds."regionalism." Encyclopedia of American Literature: Into the Modern: 1896–1945, vol. 3, Revised Edition. New York: Facts On File, Inc., 2008. Bloom's Literary Reference Online. Facts On File, Inc. Online. http://fofweb.com/activelink2.asp?ItemID=WE54&SID=5&iPin= EAmL1330&SingleRecord=True. February 15, 2011
Twain, Mark. "Two Views of the River." Glencoe American Literature. comp. Wilhelm, Jeffery. McGraw Hill. Columbus, OH. 2009. pg. 504-505.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Realism in "Letter to His Sons"
Robert E. Lee was on of the most important leaders of the Confederacy during the time of the Civil War. His military contributions are equally important as his thoughts about the separation of the Union as well as patriotism. In the “Letter to his Sons” Robert E. Lee addresses many of the conflicts that he is dealing with in a writing style that can be considered a part of the genre of Realism. There is a clear presence of evaluation of both religion and government. Indirectly he talks about the American Dream as he describes what he wants for all of his countrymen. Another common characteristic of Realism literature is simplistic language used to convey the thoughts in a rational way rather than artistically. These characteristic make this personal letter from a military leader to his sons a perfect example of Realism.
In many works that are a part of the genre of Realism, there is a concern for the government and religion (Quinn). This is exactly what Robert E. Lee does in his “Letter to his Sons.” He addresses his feelings about the states that have begun to secede from the Union and how it will eventually lead to a Civil War or complete anarchy (Lee 385). This logical thought of almost equal numbers of states with two very different beliefs is the kind of thinking that became popular in the time of Realism. Robert E. Lee also states that mankind has not been exposed to enough Christianity to keep peace in the absence of a controlling force and that he wishes for God to keep those evils away from the country (Lee 385). In Realism, quite often religion is used to make connections to commentary on society and this is exactly what Lee does in this letter (Quinn).
\With the shift in ideals and values during the time of the Civil War, the idea of the American Dream also changed. The American Dream is one of the most common topics in Realism literature because of how it was changing so much (Quinn). In this letter, Lee addresses this in a very general means by stating that the county as a whole must be peaceful. He says that “As an American citizen, I take great pride in my country, her prosperity and institutions (Lee 385)…” He wishes that all Americans share this thought and that there can be peace and brotherhood rather than the immanent breakout of Civil War and anarchy. This analysis of what the American Dream should be for everyone is one of the major characteristics that make this a work of Realism.
Simple language is used a lot of times in works of Realism because there is no need for an artistic style when presenting rational and logical ideas (Quinn). Robert E. Lee does just that in his “Letter to His Sons” with simple statements of how he feels that changes have affected and will affect the country later on. For the most part he uses simple language that would be used in everyday speaking at the time, which is not even that different than it is today.
The Civil War was a time period in which there were many shifts in views and ideals. Realism literature is a genre that analyzed these things just as Robert E. Lee did in his “Letter to His Sons.” He addresses his concerns with government and how religion ties into it as well as the American Dream and what Americans should want. All of this is done in simple language of the vernacular of the time period. These characteristics make this letter from the General Robert E. Lee a great example of Realism literature in a personal means of communication.
Works Cited
Lee, Robert E. "Letter to His Sons." Glencoe American Literature. comp. Wilhelm, Jeffery. McGraw Hill. Columbus, OH. 2009. pg. 385.
Quinn, Edward. "realism and naturalism in American literature." A Dictionary of Literary and Thematic Terms, Second Edition. New York: Facts On File, Inc., 2006. Bloom's Literary Reference Online. Facts On File, Inc. Online. http://www.fofweb.com/activelink2.asp?ItemID=WE54&SID=5&iPin= Gfflithem0707&SingleRecord=True. February 15, 2011.
In many works that are a part of the genre of Realism, there is a concern for the government and religion (Quinn). This is exactly what Robert E. Lee does in his “Letter to his Sons.” He addresses his feelings about the states that have begun to secede from the Union and how it will eventually lead to a Civil War or complete anarchy (Lee 385). This logical thought of almost equal numbers of states with two very different beliefs is the kind of thinking that became popular in the time of Realism. Robert E. Lee also states that mankind has not been exposed to enough Christianity to keep peace in the absence of a controlling force and that he wishes for God to keep those evils away from the country (Lee 385). In Realism, quite often religion is used to make connections to commentary on society and this is exactly what Lee does in this letter (Quinn).
\With the shift in ideals and values during the time of the Civil War, the idea of the American Dream also changed. The American Dream is one of the most common topics in Realism literature because of how it was changing so much (Quinn). In this letter, Lee addresses this in a very general means by stating that the county as a whole must be peaceful. He says that “As an American citizen, I take great pride in my country, her prosperity and institutions (Lee 385)…” He wishes that all Americans share this thought and that there can be peace and brotherhood rather than the immanent breakout of Civil War and anarchy. This analysis of what the American Dream should be for everyone is one of the major characteristics that make this a work of Realism.
Simple language is used a lot of times in works of Realism because there is no need for an artistic style when presenting rational and logical ideas (Quinn). Robert E. Lee does just that in his “Letter to His Sons” with simple statements of how he feels that changes have affected and will affect the country later on. For the most part he uses simple language that would be used in everyday speaking at the time, which is not even that different than it is today.
The Civil War was a time period in which there were many shifts in views and ideals. Realism literature is a genre that analyzed these things just as Robert E. Lee did in his “Letter to His Sons.” He addresses his concerns with government and how religion ties into it as well as the American Dream and what Americans should want. All of this is done in simple language of the vernacular of the time period. These characteristics make this letter from the General Robert E. Lee a great example of Realism literature in a personal means of communication.
Works Cited
Lee, Robert E. "Letter to His Sons." Glencoe American Literature. comp. Wilhelm, Jeffery. McGraw Hill. Columbus, OH. 2009. pg. 385.
Quinn, Edward. "realism and naturalism in American literature." A Dictionary of Literary and Thematic Terms, Second Edition. New York: Facts On File, Inc., 2006. Bloom's Literary Reference Online. Facts On File, Inc. Online. http://www.fofweb.com/activelink2.asp?ItemID=WE54&SID=5&iPin= Gfflithem0707&SingleRecord=True. February 15, 2011.
Monday, February 14, 2011
Realism in "Richard Cory" and "Miniver Cheevy"
Both of Edwin Arlington Robinson’s poems “Miniver Cheevy” and “Richard Cory” display many of the common characteristics associated with poetry in the genre of Realism. Each poem is about an individual person and their feelings and the actions that they take and how they affect their lives. These characters are average people rather than the amazing heroes that were popular as protagonists in many earlier genres of literature. Both of these poems use a very simple writing style to convey their thoughts, with rhyme schemes that are equally simply. These characteristics combine to create some of Edwin Robinson’s greatest poems that are excellent examples of the literary genre of Realism.
One of the most common characteristics among literature in the genre of Realism and its subgenres is the way that the protagonist is portrayed. Most often, the character is an average, middle-class person instead of an extraordinary hero (Barney and Patton). This is the way that each character is in both of Robinson’s poems. One specific difference is that Richard Cory is wealthier than the average person, but nonetheless he is still an average person (Robinson, “Richard” 575). Besides this difference in the characteristics of the protagonist, both are normal people and each poem concerns their normal lives.
Along with the main characters being average people, the subject concerning each character is their respective psychologies. “Richard Cory” describes how he is such a great man and there are others that are envious of his life, yet at the end of the poem he commits suicide without any specific reason given (Robinson, “Richard” 575). This could very well be a statement about how some people live their lives, while they are truly tortured by some sort of demon. “Miniver Cheevy” has a similar premise, but the character is not happy with his life and in the end only ends up drinking (Robinson, “Miniver” 576). Both of these works show different perspectives on how people feel about life. In one case, a character with a seemingly perfect life decides to kill himself, while another feels that his life is extremely bad and he resorts to drinking. This focus on the psychologies of the characters is a major part of a work of Realism (Quinn).
The simple language used in these two poems by Edwin Robinson is another characteristic of literature included in the genre of Realism. Both use very common diction to portray the strong thoughts and beliefs of the characters of each poem. Even the rhyme scheme of each is very simplistic, as there is an ABAB rhyme pattern for each stanza. Even with this simple writing style, each character still has a strong emotional presence in each respective story.
There are many characteristics of Realism literature used in Edwin Arlington Robinson’s two poems, “Richard Cory” and “Miniver Cheevy.” The major aspects of Realism are a simple writing style and a psychological focus on the protagonist, who is most commonly an average, middle-class character. The common thread between each character is that there is a lack of religion and this may be what caused the demise of each character. These characteristics can be seen in both of these poems that are great examples of Realism in poetry.
Works Cited
Barney, Brett, and Lisa Paddock, eds. "realism." Encyclopedia of American Literature: The Age of Romanticism and Realism, 1816–1895, vol. 2, Revised Edition. New York: Facts On File, Inc., 2008. Bloom's Literary Reference Online. Facts On File, Inc. Online. http://www.fofweb.com/activelink2.asp?ItemID=WE54&SID=5&iPin= EAmL0738&SingleRecord=True. February 14, 2011.
Quinn, Edward. "realism and naturalism in American literature." A Dictionary of Literary and Thematic Terms, Second Edition. New York: Facts On File, Inc., 2006. Bloom's Literary Reference Online. Facts On File, Inc. Online. http://www.fofweb.com/activelink2.asp?ItemID=WE54&SID=5&iPin= Gfflithem0707&SingleRecord=True. February 14, 2011.
Robinson, Edwin Arlington. "Richard Cory." Glencoe American Literature. comp. Wilhelm, Jeffery. McGraw Hill. Columbus, OH. 2009. pg. 575.
Robinson, Edwin Arlington. "Miniver Cheevy." Glencoe American Literature. comp. Wilhelm, Jeffery. McGraw Hill. Columbus, OH. 2009. pg. 576.
One of the most common characteristics among literature in the genre of Realism and its subgenres is the way that the protagonist is portrayed. Most often, the character is an average, middle-class person instead of an extraordinary hero (Barney and Patton). This is the way that each character is in both of Robinson’s poems. One specific difference is that Richard Cory is wealthier than the average person, but nonetheless he is still an average person (Robinson, “Richard” 575). Besides this difference in the characteristics of the protagonist, both are normal people and each poem concerns their normal lives.
Along with the main characters being average people, the subject concerning each character is their respective psychologies. “Richard Cory” describes how he is such a great man and there are others that are envious of his life, yet at the end of the poem he commits suicide without any specific reason given (Robinson, “Richard” 575). This could very well be a statement about how some people live their lives, while they are truly tortured by some sort of demon. “Miniver Cheevy” has a similar premise, but the character is not happy with his life and in the end only ends up drinking (Robinson, “Miniver” 576). Both of these works show different perspectives on how people feel about life. In one case, a character with a seemingly perfect life decides to kill himself, while another feels that his life is extremely bad and he resorts to drinking. This focus on the psychologies of the characters is a major part of a work of Realism (Quinn).
The simple language used in these two poems by Edwin Robinson is another characteristic of literature included in the genre of Realism. Both use very common diction to portray the strong thoughts and beliefs of the characters of each poem. Even the rhyme scheme of each is very simplistic, as there is an ABAB rhyme pattern for each stanza. Even with this simple writing style, each character still has a strong emotional presence in each respective story.
There are many characteristics of Realism literature used in Edwin Arlington Robinson’s two poems, “Richard Cory” and “Miniver Cheevy.” The major aspects of Realism are a simple writing style and a psychological focus on the protagonist, who is most commonly an average, middle-class character. The common thread between each character is that there is a lack of religion and this may be what caused the demise of each character. These characteristics can be seen in both of these poems that are great examples of Realism in poetry.
Works Cited
Barney, Brett, and Lisa Paddock, eds. "realism." Encyclopedia of American Literature: The Age of Romanticism and Realism, 1816–1895, vol. 2, Revised Edition. New York: Facts On File, Inc., 2008. Bloom's Literary Reference Online. Facts On File, Inc. Online. http://www.fofweb.com/activelink2.asp?ItemID=WE54&SID=5&iPin= EAmL0738&SingleRecord=True. February 14, 2011.
Quinn, Edward. "realism and naturalism in American literature." A Dictionary of Literary and Thematic Terms, Second Edition. New York: Facts On File, Inc., 2006. Bloom's Literary Reference Online. Facts On File, Inc. Online. http://www.fofweb.com/activelink2.asp?ItemID=WE54&SID=5&iPin= Gfflithem0707&SingleRecord=True. February 14, 2011.
Robinson, Edwin Arlington. "Richard Cory." Glencoe American Literature. comp. Wilhelm, Jeffery. McGraw Hill. Columbus, OH. 2009. pg. 575.
Robinson, Edwin Arlington. "Miniver Cheevy." Glencoe American Literature. comp. Wilhelm, Jeffery. McGraw Hill. Columbus, OH. 2009. pg. 576.
Realism in "Douglass" and "We Wear the Mask"
Laurence Dunbar’s poems “Douglass” and “We Wear the Mask” are both great examples of Realism in poetry. The contain most of the characteristics of Realism including, thoughts powered by rationalist beliefs, middle class heroes, and a focus on the physiology of many different people. All of this is delivered in two short poems that use simple poetic devices such as repetition to convey the thoughts of a group of people. Both concern the feelings of the African American population and how they have reacted to all of the social changes with antislavery movements and the treatment of all colored people.
A topic of the psychology of people caused by an environmental or social change is very common in works of Realism (Quinn). This is the case especially with Dunbar’s poem, “We Wear the Mask.” This poem is about the way that the African Americans act in comparison to how they are actually feeling. Dunbar says that they are wearing masks of grins and lies, while behind those masks there are really the tortured souls of a group of people (Dunbar “We” 571). In “Douglass,” there is also the idea presented that most all of the African Americans are afraid and looking for comfort (Dunbar “Douglass” 570). With both works, Dunbar presents a strong concern for the change in psychology of the African American people.
For most literary works of Realism, the protagonist is a sort of average, or middle-class hero rather than the extraordinary character that can be seen in many past literary genres (Barney). This is the case for both of these poems to a certain extent. In both of these poems, the subject is the African American population and how they feel about the changes that have taken place and their overall treatment. In “Douglass” the people referred to in the poem are afraid and looking for hope in a confusing world. The last lines are about how they are looking for someone or something to “give us comfort through the lonely dark (Dunbar “Douglass” 570)”. In “We Wear the Mast” there is a very strong image of a group of people who are hiding their sorrow and broken sprits behind a mask of grins and lies. Both of these topics in each of the poems are what show the African Americans as very human, without the characteristics of heroes, because they have been reduced to only fear and sadness.
Both poems also use a simple language to address the message that they are trying to get across. Both rhyme schemes are very simple, but they each portray the strong emotion felt by the groups. This simple language is a major part of literature from the genre of Realism and both works use this characteristic to add passion and truly express the feelings of the African American population (Quinn).
The middle-class, average hero, concern with they psychology of a people, and simple language are all important parts of the literary genre of Realism. Laurence Dunbar included all of these characteristics of the genre in his two poems, “Douglass” and “We Wear the Mask.” Both are about the feelings and emotions felt by the African Americans who had been reverted to simple human nature of fear and sadness, which make them perfect examples of Realism poetry.
Works Cited
Barney, Brett, and Lisa Paddock, eds. "realism." Encyclopedia of American Literature: The Age of Romanticism and Realism, 1816–1895, vol. 2, Revised Edition. New York: Facts On File, Inc., 2008. Bloom's Literary Reference Online. Facts On File, Inc. Online. http://www.fofweb.com/activelink2.asp?ItemID=WE54&SID=5&iPin= EAmL0738&SingleRecord=True. February 14, 2011.
Dunbar, Paul Laurence. "Douglass." Glencoe American Literature. comp. Wilhelm, Jeffery. McGraw Hill. Columbus, OH. 2009. pg. 570.
Dunbar, Paul Laurence. "We Wear the Mask." Glencoe American Literature. comp. Wilhelm, Jeffery. McGraw Hill. Columbus, OH. 2009. pg. 571.
Quinn, Edward. "realism and naturalism in American literature." A Dictionary of Literary and Thematic Terms, Second Edition. New York: Facts On File, Inc., 2006. Bloom's Literary Reference Online. Facts On File, Inc. Online. http://www.fofweb.com/activelink2.asp?ItemID=WE54&SID=5&iPin= Gfflithem0707&SingleRecord=True. February 14, 2011.
A topic of the psychology of people caused by an environmental or social change is very common in works of Realism (Quinn). This is the case especially with Dunbar’s poem, “We Wear the Mask.” This poem is about the way that the African Americans act in comparison to how they are actually feeling. Dunbar says that they are wearing masks of grins and lies, while behind those masks there are really the tortured souls of a group of people (Dunbar “We” 571). In “Douglass,” there is also the idea presented that most all of the African Americans are afraid and looking for comfort (Dunbar “Douglass” 570). With both works, Dunbar presents a strong concern for the change in psychology of the African American people.
For most literary works of Realism, the protagonist is a sort of average, or middle-class hero rather than the extraordinary character that can be seen in many past literary genres (Barney). This is the case for both of these poems to a certain extent. In both of these poems, the subject is the African American population and how they feel about the changes that have taken place and their overall treatment. In “Douglass” the people referred to in the poem are afraid and looking for hope in a confusing world. The last lines are about how they are looking for someone or something to “give us comfort through the lonely dark (Dunbar “Douglass” 570)”. In “We Wear the Mast” there is a very strong image of a group of people who are hiding their sorrow and broken sprits behind a mask of grins and lies. Both of these topics in each of the poems are what show the African Americans as very human, without the characteristics of heroes, because they have been reduced to only fear and sadness.
Both poems also use a simple language to address the message that they are trying to get across. Both rhyme schemes are very simple, but they each portray the strong emotion felt by the groups. This simple language is a major part of literature from the genre of Realism and both works use this characteristic to add passion and truly express the feelings of the African American population (Quinn).
The middle-class, average hero, concern with they psychology of a people, and simple language are all important parts of the literary genre of Realism. Laurence Dunbar included all of these characteristics of the genre in his two poems, “Douglass” and “We Wear the Mask.” Both are about the feelings and emotions felt by the African Americans who had been reverted to simple human nature of fear and sadness, which make them perfect examples of Realism poetry.
Works Cited
Barney, Brett, and Lisa Paddock, eds. "realism." Encyclopedia of American Literature: The Age of Romanticism and Realism, 1816–1895, vol. 2, Revised Edition. New York: Facts On File, Inc., 2008. Bloom's Literary Reference Online. Facts On File, Inc. Online. http://www.fofweb.com/activelink2.asp?ItemID=WE54&SID=5&iPin= EAmL0738&SingleRecord=True. February 14, 2011.
Dunbar, Paul Laurence. "Douglass." Glencoe American Literature. comp. Wilhelm, Jeffery. McGraw Hill. Columbus, OH. 2009. pg. 570.
Dunbar, Paul Laurence. "We Wear the Mask." Glencoe American Literature. comp. Wilhelm, Jeffery. McGraw Hill. Columbus, OH. 2009. pg. 571.
Quinn, Edward. "realism and naturalism in American literature." A Dictionary of Literary and Thematic Terms, Second Edition. New York: Facts On File, Inc., 2006. Bloom's Literary Reference Online. Facts On File, Inc. Online. http://www.fofweb.com/activelink2.asp?ItemID=WE54&SID=5&iPin= Gfflithem0707&SingleRecord=True. February 14, 2011.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Realism in "I Will Fight No More"
“I Will Fight No More” by Chief Joseph is a very important literary work for the genre of Realism. Its style exemplifies Realism, as it is very simple and almost monotonous. There is still strong emotion and descriptions to get the point across, but the sentence structure is very straightforward making statements without extra information to make it artistic. The statement, although of defeat focuses on the more human side of a Native American. He is portrayed as a common person that is mourning the death of his fellow Chiefs and only wants the fighting to end. All of these characteristics make this statement made by Chief Joseph a work of the literary genre of Realism.
The simple writing style used in this short statement is the first characteristic that makes it a part of the genre of Realism. All of the sentences are simple and to the point. Each makes a statement concerning the different topics that Chief Joseph wanted to speak about, whether it is the death of the other members of his tribe, his concern for the children, or his main want to end the fighting as a whole with General Howard (Joseph 533). A simple style is often the basis for a work of Realism because the structure is one of the best ways to convey a message (Anderson). This can be seen in this work because Chief Joseph states all of the things that he is feeling, his concerns, and what he wants done without the use of any complex language or writing style. Although the style is simple, there is no lack of emotion and passion because each simple sentence is extremely powerful in it conveying of Chief Joseph’s messages about the ending of the battling.
The common hero is the most usual protagonist for most works of Realism. The main character is most often an average, middle-class hero (Anderson). This is not exactly the case with this short work, but there are some similarities. Although Chief Joseph could be considered an extraordinary, amazing hero during his time fighting, he has almost been reduced to an average person in his surrender and wishes to end the fighting (Joseph 533). His wish to end all of the fighting makes him out to be an average person that just wants to stop the death around him and protect his people. The situation that he is put in almost brings him down from powerful, unbeatable war hero to a regular human being that is concerned with what is best for all of his people.
These characteristics are what make this short speech of Chief Joseph a part of the genre of Realism. Even though there is a very simple writing style used throughout the entire work, there is no lack of passion and emotion with every sentence that is delivered. Along with that, the main character is reduced to a regular, average person rather than a great war hero, but he is only doing what is best for his people. This speech delivered by Chief Joseph is an excellent example of all of the characteristics of Realism.
Works Cited
Anderson, George P., Judith S. Baughman, Matthew J. Bruccoli, and Carl Rollyson, eds."regionalism." Encyclopedia of American Literature: Into the Modern: 1896–1945, vol. 3, Revised Edition. New York: Facts On File, Inc., 2008. Bloom's Literary Reference Online. Facts On File, Inc. Online. http://fofweb.com/activelink2.asp?ItemID=WE54&SID=5&iPin= EAmL1330&SingleRecord=True. February 13, 2011.
Chief Joseph. "I Will Fight No More." Glencoe American Literature. comp. Wilhelm, Jeffery. McGraw Hill. Columbus, OH. 2009. pg. 533.
The simple writing style used in this short statement is the first characteristic that makes it a part of the genre of Realism. All of the sentences are simple and to the point. Each makes a statement concerning the different topics that Chief Joseph wanted to speak about, whether it is the death of the other members of his tribe, his concern for the children, or his main want to end the fighting as a whole with General Howard (Joseph 533). A simple style is often the basis for a work of Realism because the structure is one of the best ways to convey a message (Anderson). This can be seen in this work because Chief Joseph states all of the things that he is feeling, his concerns, and what he wants done without the use of any complex language or writing style. Although the style is simple, there is no lack of emotion and passion because each simple sentence is extremely powerful in it conveying of Chief Joseph’s messages about the ending of the battling.
The common hero is the most usual protagonist for most works of Realism. The main character is most often an average, middle-class hero (Anderson). This is not exactly the case with this short work, but there are some similarities. Although Chief Joseph could be considered an extraordinary, amazing hero during his time fighting, he has almost been reduced to an average person in his surrender and wishes to end the fighting (Joseph 533). His wish to end all of the fighting makes him out to be an average person that just wants to stop the death around him and protect his people. The situation that he is put in almost brings him down from powerful, unbeatable war hero to a regular human being that is concerned with what is best for all of his people.
These characteristics are what make this short speech of Chief Joseph a part of the genre of Realism. Even though there is a very simple writing style used throughout the entire work, there is no lack of passion and emotion with every sentence that is delivered. Along with that, the main character is reduced to a regular, average person rather than a great war hero, but he is only doing what is best for his people. This speech delivered by Chief Joseph is an excellent example of all of the characteristics of Realism.
Works Cited
Anderson, George P., Judith S. Baughman, Matthew J. Bruccoli, and Carl Rollyson, eds."regionalism." Encyclopedia of American Literature: Into the Modern: 1896–1945, vol. 3, Revised Edition. New York: Facts On File, Inc., 2008. Bloom's Literary Reference Online. Facts On File, Inc. Online. http://fofweb.com/activelink2.asp?ItemID=WE54&SID=5&iPin= EAmL1330&SingleRecord=True. February 13, 2011.
Chief Joseph. "I Will Fight No More." Glencoe American Literature. comp. Wilhelm, Jeffery. McGraw Hill. Columbus, OH. 2009. pg. 533.
Regionalism in "Spoon River Anthology"
“Spoon River Anthology” is Edgar Lee Masters most well known works and also a great example of Regionalism. This poem is a collection of monologues of people from a small Midwestern town (Cone). This setting alone is the first major component to this poem being Regionalism. The entire poem is also written in a fairly simple style. The style used is very similar to the vernacular of the Midwest. A lot of emphasis is given to the setting to create a theme that concerns all of the characters of the story. All of these characteristics combine to create a poem that exemplifies Regionalism very well.
There is a lot of attention given to the setting which is the most important part of a story that is in the genre of Regionalism (Anderson). The first section of the poem is devoted solely to one location of the setting to introduce some of the characters and situations that will come up later in the story (Masters). There are descriptions of the location throughout the rest of the story, and also descriptions of the time period. All of these become major parts to the entire poem as a whole.
Another part of the poem that is important to its being in the genre of Regionalism is the style in which it is written. Throughout the entire poem, the language is very simplistic, which adds to this being a work of Regionalism. The Midwest has a very simple vernacular, as there are not really words or style of speaking particular to the area as compared to the South. Overall, the Midwest has an easy way of speaking with regular English. This poem uses that style with very simple lines, rather than the complex rhymes and patterns that can be seen in traditional poetry (Masters). There are almost no external rhymes to make the lines flow together in an artistic style, but this is not necessary as it is not the style of talking that is used in the Midwest. Masters does and excellent job of portraying the language of the Midwest, and matching the vernacular of the setting is a very important part of literature included in the genre of Regionalism (Anderson).
As a whole the entire poem together there is an underlying theme about the difficulty of living in American in the 20th century (Cone). The poem depicts the social and cultural changes that were taking place at the time. This theme that comes from the collection of all of the people’s feelings is extremely important to it being a work of Regionalism because the themes that come from the setting are always the most important parts of Regionalism (Anderson).
The focus on the setting, the simple style, and the theme that comes from the focus on the setting combined with the characters are what make this a great work of Regionalism. The story of the people of a small, Midwestern town is the perfect way to display the characteristics of Regionalism as there are many things particular to the Midwest that can add to create a setting that embodies the entire theme of the story.
Works Cited
Anderson, George P., Judith S. Baughman, Matthew J. Bruccoli, and Carl Rollyson, eds."regionalism." Encyclopedia of American Literature: Into the Modern: 1896–1945, vol. 3, Revised Edition. New York: Facts On File, Inc., 2008. Bloom's Literary Reference Online. Facts On File, Inc. Online. http://fofweb.com/activelink2.asp?ItemID=WE54&SID=5&iPin= EAmL1330&SingleRecord=True. February 13, 2011.
Cone, Temple. "Spoon River Anthology." In Kimmelman, Burt, and Temple Cone, eds. The Facts On File Companion to American Poetry, vol. 2. New York: Facts On File, Inc., 2007. Bloom's Literary Reference Online. Facts On File, Inc. Online. http://www.fofweb.com/activelink2.asp?ItemID=WE54&SID=5&iPin= CTAP0520&SingleRecord=True. February 13, 2011.
Masters, Edgar Lee. "Spoon Rivers Anthology." Bartleby: Great Books Online. 2011. Online. http://www.bartleby.com/84/index.html. February 13, 2011.
There is a lot of attention given to the setting which is the most important part of a story that is in the genre of Regionalism (Anderson). The first section of the poem is devoted solely to one location of the setting to introduce some of the characters and situations that will come up later in the story (Masters). There are descriptions of the location throughout the rest of the story, and also descriptions of the time period. All of these become major parts to the entire poem as a whole.
Another part of the poem that is important to its being in the genre of Regionalism is the style in which it is written. Throughout the entire poem, the language is very simplistic, which adds to this being a work of Regionalism. The Midwest has a very simple vernacular, as there are not really words or style of speaking particular to the area as compared to the South. Overall, the Midwest has an easy way of speaking with regular English. This poem uses that style with very simple lines, rather than the complex rhymes and patterns that can be seen in traditional poetry (Masters). There are almost no external rhymes to make the lines flow together in an artistic style, but this is not necessary as it is not the style of talking that is used in the Midwest. Masters does and excellent job of portraying the language of the Midwest, and matching the vernacular of the setting is a very important part of literature included in the genre of Regionalism (Anderson).
As a whole the entire poem together there is an underlying theme about the difficulty of living in American in the 20th century (Cone). The poem depicts the social and cultural changes that were taking place at the time. This theme that comes from the collection of all of the people’s feelings is extremely important to it being a work of Regionalism because the themes that come from the setting are always the most important parts of Regionalism (Anderson).
The focus on the setting, the simple style, and the theme that comes from the focus on the setting combined with the characters are what make this a great work of Regionalism. The story of the people of a small, Midwestern town is the perfect way to display the characteristics of Regionalism as there are many things particular to the Midwest that can add to create a setting that embodies the entire theme of the story.
Works Cited
Anderson, George P., Judith S. Baughman, Matthew J. Bruccoli, and Carl Rollyson, eds."regionalism." Encyclopedia of American Literature: Into the Modern: 1896–1945, vol. 3, Revised Edition. New York: Facts On File, Inc., 2008. Bloom's Literary Reference Online. Facts On File, Inc. Online. http://fofweb.com/activelink2.asp?ItemID=WE54&SID=5&iPin= EAmL1330&SingleRecord=True. February 13, 2011.
Cone, Temple. "Spoon River Anthology." In Kimmelman, Burt, and Temple Cone, eds. The Facts On File Companion to American Poetry, vol. 2. New York: Facts On File, Inc., 2007. Bloom's Literary Reference Online. Facts On File, Inc. Online. http://www.fofweb.com/activelink2.asp?ItemID=WE54&SID=5&iPin= CTAP0520&SingleRecord=True. February 13, 2011.
Masters, Edgar Lee. "Spoon Rivers Anthology." Bartleby: Great Books Online. 2011. Online. http://www.bartleby.com/84/index.html. February 13, 2011.
Naturalism in The Red Badge of Courage
Stephen Crane is one of the most important Naturalist writers of all time. Although he was not even alive during the Civil War, he used it for his novel, The Red Badge of Courage. This work truly represents Realism as it describes the events of a soldier, even though Crane himself never served to have experiences to draw from (Bloom). Naturalism is revolves around accurately depicting the events of a story and other parts of the literary work (Quinn). This often results in stories that are quite grim because the genre of Naturalism shows the world how it is rather than as the perfect place that can be seen in many other genres. This is easily the case with The Red Badge of Courage because it is about the Civil War, which was obviously a very dark time for the country as a whole. A major part of Naturalism is the vivid descriptions of the events taking place and this story accomplishes just that.
One of the downsides of having a genre in which the events and stories are very realistic is that they usually end up having very dark, grim styles. This story has this characteristic to a certain extent. When reading it, initially one does not feel that it is all that bad, but then the reader realizes that the author is addressing the act of killing men over and over again (Crane 493). War is one topic in literature that has been popular throughout time, but the style of portraying it has changed quite a bit. In some time periods, serving in an army is depicted as an honor and an important part for members of the society, but this story focuses on how the act of killing becomes almost second nature (Crane 493).
Naturalism literature pays close attention to the details of the events in a story, as the focus of the story is to accurately depict those events. This story does that through with its strong descriptions of how the character was feeling both physically and emotionally. One line in particular displays this: “…a blistering sweat, a sensation that his eyeballs were about to crack like hot stones. A burning roar filled his ears. (Crane 493)” It is these vivid descriptions that separate Naturalism from other literary genres. Some critics believe that it is the depiction of what is happening that is even more important that the events themselves in a work of Naturalism (Quinn). This makes sense as being in battle is quite simple, while the emotions felt and physical feelings felt by the people there become very complex.
Even though Stephen Crane never actually served in the Civil War himself, he was able to successfully portray the events that took place. He was able to describe in great detail not only the events that took place but also the emotions felt by the soldiers as if he were a veteran. Experiences in a war are one of the most popular topics for Naturalism and Stephen Crane was one of the best at this making him of the greatest Naturalist writers.
Works Cited
Bloom, Harold, ed. "Background to The Red Badge of Courage." The Red Badge of Courage, Bloom's Guides. New York: Chelsea House Publishing, 2007. Bloom's Literary Reference Online. Facts on File, Inc. Online. http://www.fofweb.com/activelink2.asp?ItemID=WE54&SID=5&iPin= BGTRBC003&SingleRecord=True. February 13, 2011.
Crane, Stephen. "The Red Badge of Courage." Glencoe American Literature. comp. Wilhelm, Jeffery. McGraw Hill. Columbus, OH. 2009. pg. 493.
Quinn, Edward. "naturalism." A Dictionary of Literary and Thematic Terms, Second Edition. New York: Facts On File, Inc., 2006. Bloom's Literary Reference Online. Facts On File, Inc. http://fofweb.com/activelink2.asp?ItemID=WE54&SID=5&iPin= Gfflithem0538&SingleRecord=True. Online. February 13, 2011.
One of the downsides of having a genre in which the events and stories are very realistic is that they usually end up having very dark, grim styles. This story has this characteristic to a certain extent. When reading it, initially one does not feel that it is all that bad, but then the reader realizes that the author is addressing the act of killing men over and over again (Crane 493). War is one topic in literature that has been popular throughout time, but the style of portraying it has changed quite a bit. In some time periods, serving in an army is depicted as an honor and an important part for members of the society, but this story focuses on how the act of killing becomes almost second nature (Crane 493).
Naturalism literature pays close attention to the details of the events in a story, as the focus of the story is to accurately depict those events. This story does that through with its strong descriptions of how the character was feeling both physically and emotionally. One line in particular displays this: “…a blistering sweat, a sensation that his eyeballs were about to crack like hot stones. A burning roar filled his ears. (Crane 493)” It is these vivid descriptions that separate Naturalism from other literary genres. Some critics believe that it is the depiction of what is happening that is even more important that the events themselves in a work of Naturalism (Quinn). This makes sense as being in battle is quite simple, while the emotions felt and physical feelings felt by the people there become very complex.
Even though Stephen Crane never actually served in the Civil War himself, he was able to successfully portray the events that took place. He was able to describe in great detail not only the events that took place but also the emotions felt by the soldiers as if he were a veteran. Experiences in a war are one of the most popular topics for Naturalism and Stephen Crane was one of the best at this making him of the greatest Naturalist writers.
Works Cited
Bloom, Harold, ed. "Background to The Red Badge of Courage." The Red Badge of Courage, Bloom's Guides. New York: Chelsea House Publishing, 2007. Bloom's Literary Reference Online. Facts on File, Inc. Online. http://www.fofweb.com/activelink2.asp?ItemID=WE54&SID=5&iPin= BGTRBC003&SingleRecord=True. February 13, 2011.
Crane, Stephen. "The Red Badge of Courage." Glencoe American Literature. comp. Wilhelm, Jeffery. McGraw Hill. Columbus, OH. 2009. pg. 493.
Quinn, Edward. "naturalism." A Dictionary of Literary and Thematic Terms, Second Edition. New York: Facts On File, Inc., 2006. Bloom's Literary Reference Online. Facts On File, Inc. http://fofweb.com/activelink2.asp?ItemID=WE54&SID=5&iPin= Gfflithem0538&SingleRecord=True. Online. February 13, 2011.
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