Essays on Modernist Literature

Modernism in literature is said to have its roots in the late 19th century after World War I that took place from 1914 to 1919. Modernism in literary work is a shift from values, religion and tradition to isolation, identity crisis, fragmentation and relative truth. Modernism was catalyzed by World War I, as it led to mistrust in the ability of existing institutions to solve societal problems and maintain order in society. It also changed people’s perception of the world and society. World War I therefore influenced how writers wrote not just in terms of content of their ...

The word “modern” at first appeared long time ago – in 1585 and its meaning in Late Latin was “just now”. In English language the term modern had almost a similar meaning – “existing now”. There are two terms that relate to modern: modernism and modernity. Though they seem to be the same while derived from one term, it is though necessary to point out a definition of each of them and tell about their differences. Modernity, also known as modernization, can be defined as a process of social and economic development, involving the rising of industry, urbanization, technology and bureaucratic ...

Edwin Arlington Robinson’s “Richard Corey”

Robinson’s poem, “Richard Corey,” fits into the genre of American Literary Modernism because it deals with disillusionment and individuals “trapped by blind laws of heredity and environment or buffeted with uncomprehended chance” (Perkins 130). The poem is written from the point of view of a poor person who goes “without the meat and cursed the bread” who is admiring and envying a rich man of the town named Richard Cory (Robinson 14). Like many Modernist pieces, it reflects back to an earlier era of literature for contrast, using Romantic language to describe Richard Cory. For example, the speaker says, “he ...