The american dream

Definition

The American Dream refers to the national ethos of the United States, centered on the idea that anyone, regardless of their background, can achieve success and upward mobility through hard work and determination. It embodies ideals such as freedom, opportunity, and equality, highlighting the belief that prosperity is attainable by all who strive for it.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In Melville's short fiction and novellas, characters often grapple with the disparity between the ideal of the American Dream and the harsh realities of life, highlighting themes of ambition and disillusionment.
2. Melville's works frequently explore the moral dilemmas faced by individuals in pursuit of their dreams, questioning whether true success is achievable or simply an illusion.
3. The American Dream is depicted in Melville's characters who strive for personal freedom, yet often face societal constraints that limit their aspirations.
4. Melville's narratives can be seen as critiques of the American Dream, revealing the darker aspects of ambition and the struggle for identity amidst societal expectations.
5. The themes surrounding the American Dream in Melville's writing contribute to broader discussions about individuality, societal roles, and the nature of success in 19th-century America.

Review Questions

• How do Melville's characters reflect the complexities of pursuing the American Dream?
  • Melville's characters often embody the struggles and conflicts inherent in chasing the American Dream. Many of them start with high hopes for success but encounter numerous obstacles that challenge their ideals. Through these characters, Melville illustrates how external factors, such as societal norms and personal morality, complicate their quests for achievement and fulfillment, ultimately portraying a nuanced perspective on ambition.
• In what ways does Melville critique the notion of the American Dream in his short fiction?
  • Melville critiques the American Dream by showcasing its inherent contradictions and limitations. His stories often highlight characters who face disillusionment as they realize that hard work alone does not guarantee success. By illustrating the societal pressures and moral dilemmas associated with ambition, Melville invites readers to reconsider whether the pursuit of the American Dream leads to true happiness or fulfillment.
• Analyze how Melville's portrayal of individual struggles in his novellas reflects broader societal attitudes towards the American Dream during his time.
  • Melville's portrayal of individual struggles reveals a critical perspective on societal attitudes towards the American Dream in the 19th century. His characters frequently navigate a landscape marked by economic inequality and social constraints, mirroring contemporary debates about opportunity and meritocracy. By examining these struggles, Melville highlights a growing skepticism towards the notion that everyone has equal access to success, ultimately calling into question the validity of the American Dream as an attainable ideal for all.

Related terms

Manifest Destiny: The 19th-century doctrine that the expansion of the US throughout the American continents was both justified and inevitable.

Self-Made Man: A person who achieves success through their own efforts and abilities, often associated with the idea that anyone can rise to prominence in society.

Social Mobility: The ability of individuals or families to move up or down the social ladder, often linked to education and economic opportunities.