Elitism

Definition

Elitism is the belief that a select group of individuals, often characterized by wealth, education, or social status, should hold power and influence over the rest of society. This concept often highlights a divide between the elite and the masses, suggesting that the elite are better suited to lead due to their perceived superiority. Within literature, elitism can manifest through themes of social stratification and the portrayal of characters who embody these power dynamics.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Elitism is often critiqued in literature for promoting inequality and reinforcing social hierarchies.
2. The concept of the Great American Novel frequently engages with themes of elitism by contrasting the experiences of the elite with those of ordinary citizens.
3. Authors like F. Scott Fitzgerald in 'The Great Gatsby' illustrate how elitism can corrupt individuals and relationships.
4. Elitism can also be reflected in literary criticism where certain works are deemed more worthy based on their association with elite cultural values.
5. The tension between elitism and democracy is a recurring theme in American literature, questioning who gets to define what is valuable or significant.

Review Questions

• How does elitism influence character development in American literature?
  • Elitism significantly shapes character development by creating contrasts between characters from different social classes. For example, characters from elite backgrounds may be portrayed as out of touch or morally ambiguous, while those from lower classes often display resilience and authenticity. This dynamic serves to critique societal norms and highlight the complexities of power and privilege in personal relationships.
• Analyze how the Great American Novel reflects the ideals or critiques of elitism in society.
  • The Great American Novel often reflects critiques of elitism by showcasing the disparity between the wealthy elite and everyday people. Novels such as 'The Great Gatsby' expose the emptiness and moral decay that can accompany wealth and status, while simultaneously revealing how these themes resonate with broader societal issues. The narratives challenge readers to question the values associated with success and the true nature of the American Dream.
• Evaluate the impact of elitism on cultural representation in American literature and its implications for social change.
  • Elitism impacts cultural representation by privileging certain narratives and perspectives over others, which can limit the diversity of voices within American literature. This creates an environment where elite viewpoints dominate discourse, potentially stifling meaningful dialogue about social change. By critically examining elitist structures in literature, readers can gain insights into the ways power dynamics shape societal norms, ultimately pushing for more inclusive representations that challenge traditional hierarchies.

Related terms

Meritocracy: A system in which advancement is based on individual ability or achievement, often critiqued as a form of elitism when it privileges certain groups over others.

Cultural Capital: The non-financial social assets that promote social mobility, including education, intellect, and style of speech, which can reinforce elitist structures.

Classism: Prejudice or discrimination based on social class, often intertwined with elitism as it perpetuates the idea that some classes are inherently superior to others.