Representation of American Culture in American Literature

Unalienable

Cannot be taken away from you, as it is intrinsically part of you

Promissory note

A written contract and promise

Middle class

Known as the "Middling Sort" in the 18th century, gained wealth to create literature and art

Ethnic purity in American art

Some believe American art is ethnically pure, but it is a blend due to historical interactions

Native American literature

Native Americans contributed to American literature with works like "Black Elk Speaks" and "Life Among the Piutes"

European influence on American narratives

Works like "A Short Account of the Destruction of the Indies" shaped American literature

Immigrant influence

Immigrants like Chinese, Japanese, and Eastern Europeans contributed to American literature with works like "The Flower Drum Song" and "Jews Without Money"

Continuous American narrative

American narrative is always being written and edited by each generation