Naturalism as a Mirror of the 1930s
Literature is often a reflection of the time period in which it was written or, in the case of historical fiction, of the time period it is focused on. Authors will often find sneaky little ways to demonstrate the dominant characteristics of the time period by blending in details, that, at a closer glance, reveal these hidden themes.
In class, we viewed several videos (in the LitByFleming blog video bar) that gave us a look at some major events and common themes or characteristics of the 1930s. John Steinbeck certainly considered these elements when writing Of Mice and Men. In fact, it might be said, his writing style intentionally made use of naturalism in order to capture and expose some of the attitudes and characteristics of the American 1930s. Let's see if you can make the connection! Think about some of the naturalistic elements we identified in class (Chapter 1). What aspects or characteristics of the 1930s are being demonstrated to us at those moments in the text? What do you believe John Steinbeck was trying to show us or expose about the way people, life, or society was during this time in American history?
Naturalism is a type of literature that attempts to show humans in a very detached way, based on their relationships and the environment that they're in. It is displayed a lot in Of Mice and Men. John Steinbeck incorporates elements of naturalism through the dialogue in the book.
Ignorance is shown by John Steinbeck. I can connect the characteristics of the 1930s to the ill education of George and Lennie because the 1930s sheltered poor and homeless people. It's pretty hard to imagine a well educated person in an era of destitute men and women.
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