M4 Literary Modernism Overview

Literary Modernism

A literary movement that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, characterized by a break from traditional forms and a focus on new literary techniques.

Characteristics of Modernism

Includes experimentation with narrative forms, the use of stream of consciousness, a focus on subjective experience, and themes of disillusionment.

Stream of Consciousness

A narrative technique that attempts to capture the flow of thoughts and feelings running through a character's mind.

Disillusionment

A common theme in modernist literature, reflecting a loss of faith in traditional values and beliefs, often due to the trauma of World War I.

Important Modernist Authors

Notable authors include Virginia Woolf, James Joyce, T.S. Eliot, and Franz Kafka, known for their influential works during the modernist period.

Modernist Poetry

Characterized by free verse, imagery, and exploration of complex themes, breaking away from established forms and structures.

Cultural Context of Modernism

Emerging in response to rapid societal changes, including industrialization, urbanization, and the impact of war.

Imagism

A movement within modernist poetry that emphasized precise imagery and clear, sharp language.

Fragmentation

A literary technique used in modernism that involves breaking narratives into disconnected or incomplete parts to reflect the chaos of modern life.

Avant-Garde

Refers to innovative, experimental works in art and literature that challenge conventional norms and expectations.