American Literature: Pre-Colonial to Romanticism Flashcard

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What is the main focus of Colonial Literature?

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Colonial Literature primarily focuses on the experiences and perspectives of early settlers in America, often emphasizing themes of survival, faith, and the relationship with Native Americans.

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What is a key characteristic of Early National Literature?

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Early National Literature often reflects the emerging American identity and the importance of reason over faith, contrasting with earlier literary movements.

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What themes are prevalent in Native American and indigenous literature?

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Nature, spirituality, community, and the relationship between humans and the environment are prevalent themes in Native American and indigenous literature.

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What motivated many settlers to come to the New World during the Colonial period?

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Many settlers were motivated by religious reasons, seeking freedom from persecution and the opportunity to practice their faith.

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What is a common topic in American literature from the Beginnings to Transcendentalism?

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Common topics include religion/spirituality, nature, and the tension between individuals and community.

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What literary style is NOT typically found in Indigenous Literature from the pre-colonial period?

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Heroic Couplets are not typically found in Indigenous Literature; instead, repetition and rhythm are common stylistic elements.

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What is Transcendentalism?

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Transcendentalism is a philosophical movement that emphasizes the inherent goodness of people and nature, advocating for self-reliance and individual intuition.

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How does Romanticism differ from earlier literary movements?

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Romanticism emphasizes emotion, individualism, and the beauty of nature, contrasting with the rationalism of the Enlightenment and the faith-based focus of earlier movements.

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What role does nature play in American literature?

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Nature serves as a central theme, symbolizing beauty, inspiration, and a connection to the divine, particularly in Romantic and Transcendentalist works.

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What is the significance of the term 'The Sublime' in literature?

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The Sublime refers to an aesthetic quality that inspires awe and wonder, often associated with nature's grandeur and the emotional response it evokes.