It contributes by its unique portrayal of the human condition. The protagonist's struggle in the dunes reflects the general existential struggle in American novels of characters against their environment, be it physical or social.
The novel contributes to Existential American Novels by its deep - dived look into the concept of identity. The woman in the dunes is forced to re - evaluate who she is in the face of her new, trapped existence. This is similar to how characters in other American existential novels question their own identities in the midst of various challenges. It also uses the power dynamics between the characters in the dunes to highlight the complex relationships that are often explored in existential American novels, where power can be a tool for self - discovery or further entrapment.
Existential themes in 'The Woman in the Dunes' often revolve around the absurdity of the situation the characters face. The woman is trapped in the dunes, much like how individuals in existential thought are trapped in a seemingly meaningless world. In American novels in general, this shows a contrast to the more typically American ideals of freedom and progress.
It contributes by providing a detailed look at a specific historical event. The yellow fever epidemic in 1793 was a significant event, and 'Fever 1793' gives readers a chance to understand it better. It adds to the body of knowledge about that time period in American history.
It contributes by bringing in a fresh perspective on American history. It uses the concept of gods from different cultures that have influenced America. For instance, the Norse gods in the story are part of the American fabric through immigration. This connection between mythology and American history is a key contribution to Americana novels.
It adds a unique voice. 'Little Big Man' tells a story from a perspective that hadn't been fully explored before in the picaresque genre. It gives a different view of the American frontier and its people.
Existential American novels have influenced modern American literature in multiple ways. They have expanded the range of themes that can be explored. For instance, the Beat Generation works like 'On the Road' by Jack Kerouac inspired later authors to write about non - conformist lifestyles and the search for spiritual and personal freedom. Also, the way these novels deal with the human condition in the face of chaos and uncertainty has given modern authors a template for exploring the psychological and philosophical aspects of characters. For example, Ernest Hemingway's terse writing style in 'The Sun Also Rises' influenced many modern writers to convey complex emotions with simplicity.
Compared to some other existential American novels, 'The Sheltering Sky' has a very distinct sense of place. The North African setting sets it apart. Other novels might focus more on urban or domestic settings. Also, the way it portrays the characters' relationship with nature is different. In some other existential novels, the focus could be more on social interactions within a specific American society.
Well, take 'On the Road'. It reflects the post - war American society where there was a sense of restlessness. The characters' constant traveling and search for new experiences mirror the broader American desire for change and exploration. It also shows the influence of the Beat Generation, which was a reaction against the mainstream American values of the time. Another aspect is seen in 'The Sun Also Rises'. The Lost Generation's disillusionment in the novel is a reflection of the after - effects of World War I on American society. The hedonistic lifestyle of the characters can be seen as a way to cope with the lack of purpose that many Americans felt at that time.
One of the most well - known existential American novels is 'The Catcher in the Rye' by J. D. Salinger. It explores themes of alienation and the search for identity through the eyes of Holden Caulfield. Another is 'On the Road' by Jack Kerouac, which embodies the spirit of the Beat Generation and the quest for meaning in a fast - changing world. Also, 'The Sun Also Rises' by Ernest Hemingway has elements of existentialism as it shows characters dealing with disillusionment and the search for purpose in post - World War I Europe.
It provides a realistic portrayal of a difficult period in American history. It makes readers aware of the struggles of the working class during the Great Depression.
It contributes by adding a unique perspective on regional culture. It gives readers an in - depth look at Boston culture which was different from other parts of America at that time.