key term - An American tragedy

Definition

An American tragedy refers to a narrative framework in literature that explores the conflicts and moral dilemmas faced by individuals within the context of American society. This term highlights the struggles against societal constraints, economic hardship, and the pursuit of the American Dream, often resulting in a protagonist's downfall. It reveals the darker aspects of life in urban America, where personal aspirations collide with systemic issues such as poverty and inequality.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The concept of an American tragedy is often associated with works like Theodore Dreiser's 'An American Tragedy,' which examines the destructive pursuit of wealth and status.
2. American tragedies often feature flawed protagonists whose aspirations lead to moral conflicts and ultimately their demise.
3. Urban settings play a crucial role in these narratives, serving as a backdrop for the complexities of modern life and the challenges individuals face.
4. Themes such as ambition, class struggle, and the consequences of individual choices are central to understanding American tragedies.
5. An American tragedy reflects broader societal issues, highlighting how systemic inequalities can trap individuals despite their best efforts.

Review Questions

• How do urban settings contribute to the themes found in an American tragedy?
  • Urban settings amplify the themes in an American tragedy by creating a backdrop where societal pressures, economic disparities, and personal ambitions collide. The bustling city often symbolizes both opportunity and entrapment, illustrating how individuals navigate their aspirations amidst systemic challenges. This environment highlights the conflicts faced by protagonists as they grapple with their desires against the harsh realities of urban life.
• Discuss the role of moral conflict in shaping the narrative of an American tragedy and its impact on characters.
  • Moral conflict is central to the narrative of an American tragedy, as it forces characters to make difficult choices between their desires and ethical considerations. This internal struggle not only drives the plot forward but also deepens character development, revealing their complexities. The consequences of these moral dilemmas often lead to tragic outcomes, showcasing how personal failures are intertwined with larger societal issues.
• Evaluate how the portrayal of ambition in an American tragedy serves as both a motivator and a source of downfall for characters within urban realism.
  • In an American tragedy, ambition acts as a double-edged sword, motivating characters to strive for success while simultaneously leading them toward their downfall. The intense desire to achieve the American Dream can push individuals to make reckless decisions or compromise their morals, particularly in urban environments where competition is fierce. This dynamic underscores a critical commentary on society: that while ambition is often celebrated, it can also be a pathway to despair when shaped by systemic inequalities and personal vulnerabilities.

Related terms

Naturalism:

A literary movement that emphasizes the influence of environment and heredity on human behavior, often depicting the harsh realities of life.

The American Dream:

The belief that anyone can achieve success and prosperity through hard work and determination, regardless of their background.

Social Realism: A literary approach that focuses on depicting the everyday lives of working-class people and addressing social issues and injustices.