American Dream

Definition

The American Dream is the idea that anyone in the United States can achieve success and prosperity through hard work and determination, regardless of their background or social class. This concept has evolved over time, reflecting the hopes and aspirations of individuals seeking a better life and has been a significant theme in American literature, highlighting the pursuit of happiness and individualism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The phrase 'American Dream' was popularized by James Truslow Adams in his 1931 book 'The Epic of America,' where he described it as a vision of a better, richer life.
2. The American Dream has been portrayed positively in many works of literature, representing hope and opportunity, but also negatively as unattainable or misleading.
3. Key literary works that address the American Dream include 'The Great Gatsby' by F. Scott Fitzgerald, which critiques the idea of success through wealth and status.
4. Historical events such as the Great Depression and civil rights movements have influenced perceptions of the American Dream, highlighting disparities in access to opportunities.
5. The American Dream continues to evolve in contemporary discussions about economic inequality and social justice, prompting debates on whether it is still achievable for all.

Review Questions

• How does the American Dream serve as a reflection of individual aspirations in literature?
  • In literature, the American Dream often reflects individual aspirations by illustrating characters who strive for success, prosperity, and happiness against various societal challenges. These narratives highlight personal journeys and the belief that hard work can lead to fulfillment. However, they also reveal the complexities and contradictions within this ideal, showcasing characters who struggle to attain their dreams due to external barriers such as class, race, or economic hardship.
• Discuss how major historical events have shaped the representation of the American Dream in 20th-century literature.
  • Major historical events such as the Great Depression, World War II, and the civil rights movement significantly shaped how the American Dream is portrayed in 20th-century literature. During the Great Depression, many authors expressed disillusionment with the notion that hard work guarantees success, emphasizing themes of poverty and struggle instead. In contrast, post-war literature often celebrated newfound prosperity while grappling with underlying inequalities. The civil rights movement further challenged traditional notions of the American Dream by highlighting systemic barriers faced by marginalized groups seeking equality and opportunity.
• Evaluate how contemporary discussions about economic inequality impact perceptions of the American Dream today.
  • Contemporary discussions about economic inequality greatly impact perceptions of the American Dream by raising questions about its accessibility for all individuals. As disparities in wealth and opportunity continue to grow, many argue that the traditional notion of the American Dream is increasingly unattainable for marginalized groups. This has led to a re-evaluation of what success means in modern society, prompting calls for systemic changes that promote inclusivity and fairness. Literature today often reflects these tensions by exploring themes of struggle against socioeconomic barriers while envisioning new definitions of achievement that go beyond material wealth.

Related terms

Individualism:

A social and political philosophy emphasizing the moral worth of the individual, advocating for personal freedom and self-reliance.

Social Mobility: The ability of individuals or families to move up or down the social hierarchy, often associated with changes in wealth, education, or occupation.

Disillusionment: A feeling of disappointment resulting from the discovery that something is not as good as one believed it to be, often related to the failure of the American Dream for certain individuals or groups.