Globalization

Definition

Globalization is the process by which businesses, cultures, and economies develop international influence or operate on an international scale. This interconnectedness has led to significant cultural exchanges and economic interactions across borders, impacting literature by introducing diverse perspectives and themes influenced by transatlantic travel and exchange.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Globalization accelerated during the 18th and 19th centuries with advancements in transportation and communication, notably through transatlantic travel.
2. Literature from this era reflects a growing interest in cross-cultural themes, influenced by the movement of people and ideas across oceans.
3. Authors began to incorporate experiences of colonialism and trade into their works, exploring complex relationships between different cultures.
4. The exchange of ideas and literary styles led to the emergence of hybrid genres, combining elements from various traditions.
5. Globalization also facilitated the spread of literary movements such as Romanticism, which were shaped by both European and American contexts.

Review Questions

• How did transatlantic travel contribute to the concept of globalization in literature during the 18th and 19th centuries?
  • Transatlantic travel significantly contributed to globalization in literature by enabling the exchange of ideas, narratives, and cultural practices between Europe and America. This movement allowed authors to draw inspiration from diverse cultures, leading to works that reflect complex themes of identity, migration, and colonial encounters. As writers traveled or communicated across the ocean, they incorporated new perspectives into their narratives, enriching the literary landscape.
• In what ways did globalization influence literary forms and themes during this period?
  • Globalization influenced literary forms and themes by introducing multicultural elements that blended different literary traditions. Authors began experimenting with new styles that incorporated influences from both European and indigenous American cultures. The impact of trade routes and colonial interactions also prompted writers to explore themes related to power dynamics, cultural identity, and the consequences of imperialism, resulting in a richer diversity of voices in literature.
• Evaluate the role of globalization in shaping modern literature's response to historical events like colonialism and migration.
  • Globalization has played a crucial role in shaping modern literature's response to historical events such as colonialism and migration by fostering an environment where diverse narratives can coexist. Contemporary authors often engage with these themes by reflecting on their own experiences or those of their communities affected by displacement. This interaction leads to a more nuanced understanding of cultural hybridity and social justice issues, as writers address the legacies of colonialism while promoting dialogues about identity and belonging in an increasingly interconnected world.

Related terms

Transatlanticism: A cultural and literary movement that emphasizes the relationships and exchanges between Europe and America, particularly during the 18th and 19th centuries.

Colonialism:

The practice of acquiring full or partial political control over another country, leading to the exploitation of resources and the imposition of cultural values, often reflected in literature.

Diaspora: The dispersion of any people from their original homeland, which contributes to multicultural influences in literature as displaced communities share their narratives.