Select one of the prompts below and follow the directions.
A. Consider what you have learned about American history from the 1920s to the 1940s. How do the stories you have read in this unit reflect what was going on in the country then? Describe what you have learned.
In the stories I have read in this unit, American history from the 1920s to the 1940s is vividly reflected, highlighting the societal, political, and cultural changes occurring during that period.
One key aspect that stands out is the significant shift in American society towards modernity and consumerism. The advancement of technology, along with the economic prosperity of the Roaring Twenties, led to an increase in consumer spending and the emergence of a new leisure-oriented culture. This is exemplified in stories like F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby," where the characters are obsessed with status, material wealth, and indulgence. Additionally, the story captures the disillusionment and moral collapse resulting from the pursuit of the American Dream.
Another significant theme was the strain and aftermath of World War I. The war had a lasting impact on American society, leaving behind scars of trauma, loss, and a sense of disillusionment. Ernest Hemingway's "A Farewell to Arms" vividly portrays the psychological toll of war, as the protagonist struggles with the horrors he witnessed on the battlefield, the futility of the conflict, and the search for purpose in a post-war world.
Furthermore, the stories shed light on the social and cultural tensions prevalent in America during the 1930s, marked by the Great Depression. John Steinbeck's "The Grapes of Wrath" explores the plight of the working class during this time, depicting the suffering of the Okies and their struggle for survival amidst economic hardships, discrimination, and exploitation. It reveals the social injustices and inequality prevalent in America’s capitalist system, raising important questions about labor rights, wealth distribution, and solidarity.
In the backdrop of these stories, the rise of authoritarianism and the growing threat of fascism in Europe are present. The looming specter of World War II shaped both the domestic and international affairs of the United States during the 1940s. This is apparent in Herman Wouk's "The Winds of War," which investigates the political climate leading to the outbreak of war and examines the complexity of national loyalty and personal conscience.
Overall, the stories from this unit offer a nuanced glimpse into American history from the 1920s to the 1940s, reflecting the social, political, and cultural transformations taking place. They portray the tensions between tradition and modernity, the aftermath of war, the struggle for justice, and the looming threat of global conflict. By delving into these narratives, we gain a deeper understanding of the complexities and challenges faced by individuals and society during this pivotal era in American history.