Yankee

Definition

The term 'yankee' refers to a colloquial expression used to describe a person from the United States, particularly those from the northern states. It has evolved over time to symbolize a sense of American identity and pride, especially during the period leading up to and during the Civil War, influencing American theatre through character portrayals and narratives in plays written by American playwrights.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The term 'yankee' was originally used during the Revolutionary War as a derogatory term by British troops for American colonists but was later embraced as a symbol of American identity.
2. In the context of theatre, yankee characters often embody traits like resourcefulness, humor, and an adventurous spirit, making them popular figures in American plays.
3. The portrayal of yankees in theatre reflected broader themes of national identity, patriotism, and regionalism as American playwrights sought to define what it meant to be American.
4. Yankees became iconic figures in various forms of American art, including literature and music, contributing to the mythos of the 'self-made man' during the 19th century.
5. The term gained further prominence during the Civil War era, where it was used to refer to Union soldiers and represented a sense of unity and defiance against Southern Confederates.

Review Questions

• How did the perception of yankees change from the Revolutionary War to the Civil War, and what impact did this have on American theatre?
  • Initially used as a derogatory term by British troops during the Revolutionary War, 'yankee' transformed into a badge of pride for Americans by the Civil War. This shift reflected a growing sense of national identity, which was echoed in American theatre through characters representing yankees who embodied traits such as resilience and humor. Playwrights utilized these portrayals to connect with audiences and express themes of patriotism, ultimately influencing the narratives and character development seen on stage.
• In what ways did yankee characters contribute to the themes of regionalism in American theatre?
  • Yankee characters played a significant role in regionalism by highlighting specific cultural traits and dialects associated with New Englanders. Their representations allowed playwrights to explore local customs and societal norms within their works. Through these portrayals, audiences gained insight into diverse American experiences while also reinforcing regional identities that shaped the broader narrative of American culture during this time.
• Critically analyze how the representation of yankees in 19th-century theatre reflected broader societal attitudes towards nationalism and identity in America.
  • The representation of yankees in 19th-century theatre served as a reflection of evolving societal attitudes towards nationalism and identity. As Americans grappled with issues of unity amidst growing sectionalism leading up to the Civil War, yankee characters became symbols of resilience, embodying values such as ingenuity and self-reliance. These portrayals not only entertained but also fostered a sense of collective identity among audiences, reinforcing themes of American exceptionalism while simultaneously critiquing stereotypes associated with different regional identities.

Related terms

American Exceptionalism: The belief that the United States is inherently different from other nations, often associated with a sense of mission to spread democracy and freedom.

Minstrel Shows: A form of entertainment that emerged in the 19th century, which featured white performers in blackface, often portraying stereotypes of African Americans, reflecting racial attitudes of the time.

Regionalism: A literary and theatrical movement that emphasizes specific geographic areas and their culture, identity, and dialect, often seen in American plays that highlight local customs and characters.