A great American tragedy novel usually has a powerful narrative that evokes deep emotions. It might show the struggle of individuals against a system that seems stacked against them or the consequences of choices made in a highly competitive and unequal society.
One common theme is the failure of the American Dream. In novels like 'The Great Gatsby', the characters strive for wealth and status but end up disillusioned.
A great American novel often has a compelling story that reflects the diverse experiences and values of the country. It might tackle important social issues or offer unique perspectives on American culture and history.
The Great Gatsby is a great American novel because it captures the essence of an era. The 1920s was a time of change, and the novel shows the newfound wealth, the loosening of social mores, and the disillusionment that came with it. The characters' relationships, like Gatsby's doomed love for Daisy, are emblematic of the human condition. The novel also comments on the hollowness of the pursuit of material wealth and the loss of true values in American society, making it a timeless classic.
One reason is its vivid portrayal of the disillusionment and emptiness beneath the surface of the prosperous society. It also showcases the complexity of human desires and the inevitable downfall of illusions. The language and style are masterful, adding to its greatness.
The Great Gatsby is considered a great American novel because of its powerful themes like the American Dream and social class. It also has vivid characterizations and a richly described setting that reflects the era.
It's the vivid portrayal of the Jazz Age and the exploration of themes like the American Dream and social class that make it great.
One factor is that it reflects the American experience. For example, if it shows the struggles and hopes of different social classes in America like in 'The Grapes of Wrath' by John Steinbeck which shows the plight of the working - class during the Great Depression. Another is its influence on American culture. 'The Jungle' by Upton Sinclair had a huge impact on food safety regulations in the US. And unique literary style also matters, like Faulkner's complex narrative in 'Absalom, Absalom!'
One factor could be its ability to capture the essence of the American experience at a particular time. For example, 'The Great Gatsby' is often considered in this category as it shows the Jazz Age, with its themes of wealth, love, and the pursuit of the American Dream.
There are multiple factors. The way it critiques a society that suppresses knowledge and individuality is a big part. The story's ability to hold a mirror up to American society, showing what could happen if we lose our connection to literature and free thinking. The writing style is also engaging, with vivid descriptions that draw the reader into this strange, yet somewhat familiar, world. All these elements combined make 'Fahrenheit 451' a great American novel.
The exploration of the human psyche in a different way. 'Infinite Jest' delves deep into the minds of characters dealing with various addictions and the search for meaning in a consumer - driven American society, which is both strange and profound. It's this kind of in - depth exploration that can make a novel great and strange. Also, the use of language. McCarthy in 'Blood Meridian' uses a very sparse and yet vivid language to paint a picture of a brutal world, which is different from the common way of writing and thus gives the novel its strange and great quality.