Early
American Literature writing that emerged from the original U.S colonies during
the period from 1607 to the late 1700. It was largely influenced by British
writers and was created to inform people about colonial life, religious
disputes and settlement issues. Many of characteristics of early American
literature can be found in the poems, journals, letters, narratives, histories
and teaching material written by settlers, religious figures and historical
icons of the period. American Literature includes the writings of Marry Rowlandson,
William Bradford, Anne Bradstreet and John Winthrop.
American
Literature had been affected from many ways; each way makes a different in
America’s literature. The three characteristics of American Literature include
– plot of decline, indifferent of nature, 3rd person omniscient reaction to
romanticism and surrealism.
Firstly,
American Literature reflects beliefs and traditions that come from the nation’s
frontier days. The pioneer ideals of self-reliance and independence appear
again and again in American writings. American authors have great respect for
the value and importance of the individual. They tend to reject authority and
to emphasize democracy and the equality of people. They often celebrate nature
and a sense of boundless space.
Second,
American writers have always had a strong tendency to break with literary
tradition and to strike out their own
directions. Writers of other
countries
seem to absorb their national
literary traditions. But many American authors
have rejected the old in order to create something
new.
Thirdly,
a lively streak of humor runs thorough American literature from earliest
times to present. In many cases a dash of salty humor saves serious theme from becoming
too sentimental.
American humor tends to be exaggerated rather than
subtle. It reflects the people’s ability to laugh at themselves even during the
most difficult times.
