Great American Novel

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Edwin Longsden Long - Uncle Tom and Little Eva

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The Great American Novel by Philip Roth

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The Last of the Mohicans 1826

James Fenimore Cooper by Brady

Title page for The Scarlet Letter

Great American Novel is a concept that refers to a novel that is thought to capture the essence of the American experience. This term is often used to discuss a work of literature that is emblematic of the identity, history, and culture of the United States. The Great American Novel is not a specific book, but rather a symbolic idea that has evolved over time, reflecting the changing dynamics and diverse narratives within American society.

Origins and Definition

The term "Great American Novel" was first coined by John William De Forest in an essay published in 1868. De Forest posited that the Great American Novel should depict the American experience in a manner that is both comprehensive and profound. Since its inception, the concept has been the subject of debate among literary critics, authors, and the public, with various novels being proposed as fitting this lofty designation.

Characteristics

While there is no consensus on what exactly constitutes the Great American Novel, certain characteristics are often cited as indicative of this status. These include:

• A wide scope, encompassing a broad spectrum of American life and culture.
• Deep exploration of American themes, such as democracy, freedom, the American Dream, individualism, and social mobility.
• Richly drawn characters who represent diverse aspects of American society.
• A narrative that reflects significant historical or social changes in the United States.

Notable Contenders

Over the years, several novels have been suggested as embodying the qualities of the Great American Novel. Some of these include:

• Moby-Dick by Herman Melville, which explores themes of obsession, the limits of knowledge, and the American spirit.
• The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain, considered by many as a strong contender due to its critical examination of race and identity in America.
• The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, which critiques the American Dream through the lens of the Jazz Age.
• To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, highlighting racial injustice and moral growth in the American South.
• Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison, addressing the African American experience and issues of identity and social invisibility.

Contemporary Perspectives

In recent years, the concept of the Great American Novel has been expanded to include works that represent the increasing diversity of the American experience. Novels by authors from varied backgrounds, addressing themes of immigration, gender, and sexuality, have been proposed as new contenders for this symbolic title.

Criticism

The idea of the Great American Novel has faced criticism for various reasons. Some argue that it is an outdated concept that reinforces a monolithic view of American culture. Others believe that the quest for a single, defining work overlooks the richness and diversity of American literature.

Conclusion

The Great American Novel remains a compelling idea, symbolizing the quest for a literary work that encapsulates the American spirit. While it may be an elusive goal, the debate and discussion it inspires contribute to an ongoing exploration of American identity through literature.