key term - American Dream

Definition

The American Dream is the belief that anyone, regardless of their background, can achieve success and prosperity through hard work and determination. This concept emphasizes the idea of equal opportunity, where individuals can rise above their circumstances and attain a better life for themselves and their families. The American Dream is deeply intertwined with the narratives of hope, aspiration, and the pursuit of happiness that permeate American culture, reflecting the changing values and social realities across different eras.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The American Dream gained prominence in the early 20th century as a response to industrialization and urbanization, symbolizing hope for many immigrants seeking better lives in the United States.
2. Literature from the Lost Generation often critiques the notion of the American Dream, highlighting themes of disillusionment and moral ambiguity after World War I.
3. The Great American Novel often grapples with the complexities and contradictions of the American Dream, exploring how it impacts characters' lives and aspirations.
4. American realism in theater frequently presents characters who struggle to attain the American Dream, reflecting societal issues such as class disparity and economic hardship.
5. The evolving interpretation of the American Dream has led to debates about its accessibility, especially concerning race, gender, and economic inequality in contemporary society.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of disillusionment manifest in the works of authors from the Lost Generation when discussing the American Dream?
  • Authors from the Lost Generation express disillusionment with the American Dream by portraying characters who struggle to find meaning and fulfillment after experiencing the trauma of World War I. Their writings often highlight a stark contrast between the idealized vision of success and the harsh realities faced by individuals in post-war society. This generation's skepticism towards traditional values and societal expectations reflects a broader questioning of whether the American Dream is truly attainable or just an illusion.
• In what ways does the Great American Novel challenge or reinforce traditional views of the American Dream?
  • The Great American Novel often presents complex narratives that either challenge or reinforce traditional views of the American Dream. Some novels depict characters who achieve success through hard work, embodying the ideal, while others reveal the systemic barriers that prevent certain groups from accessing these opportunities. By examining both perspectives, these novels encourage readers to critically analyze the notion of meritocracy and consider how factors such as race, class, and gender influence an individual's ability to pursue their dreams.
• Critically evaluate how American realism in theater represents the struggles associated with achieving the American Dream and its implications for society.
  • American realism in theater portrays characters grappling with socioeconomic challenges that complicate their pursuit of the American Dream. By showcasing realistic scenarios where individuals face obstacles like poverty, discrimination, and lack of opportunity, these plays highlight systemic issues within society that hinder success for many. This representation serves as a powerful commentary on the disparity between the idealized version of the American Dream and lived experiences, prompting audiences to reflect on societal values and their implications for real-life aspirations.

Related terms

Social Mobility: The ability of individuals or families to move up or down the social ladder in terms of economic status or social class.

Disillusionment:

A feeling of disappointment resulting from the discovery that something is not as good as one believed it to be, often linked to the loss of faith in the American Dream.

Meritocracy: A social system in which individuals succeed based on their abilities and talents rather than on their social class or wealth.