The Atlantic Monthly

Definition

The Atlantic Monthly is a prominent American magazine founded in 1857, known for its literary content, cultural commentary, and journalism. It has been influential in shaping public discourse and has featured a number of renowned writers and journalists throughout its history, including notable figures like Martha Gellhorn, who contributed to its legacy of high-quality reporting and essay writing.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Atlantic Monthly was originally established to promote the discussion of literary and cultural topics in America.
2. Martha Gellhorn wrote several pieces for The Atlantic Monthly during her career, showcasing her unique perspective on war and social issues.
3. The magazine has won numerous awards for its journalism and has been a platform for both established and emerging writers.
4. The Atlantic Monthly has evolved over the years, transitioning from print to digital media while maintaining its commitment to quality journalism.
5. It has published significant essays and articles that have sparked national conversations on various topics, influencing both public opinion and policy.

Review Questions

• How did The Atlantic Monthly contribute to the development of literary journalism in America?
  • The Atlantic Monthly played a key role in the evolution of literary journalism by providing a platform for writers to blend narrative techniques with journalistic integrity. This allowed for a more engaging and immersive storytelling approach, which helped readers connect with complex social issues on a deeper level. The magazine's commitment to quality writing encouraged many writers to experiment with this genre, ultimately enriching American literature and journalism.
• Discuss the impact of Martha Gellhorn's contributions to The Atlantic Monthly on perceptions of women's roles in journalism during her time.
  • Martha Gellhorn's work in The Atlantic Monthly significantly impacted how women's roles were perceived in journalism. As one of the few prominent female war correspondents, her articles not only showcased her exceptional reporting skills but also challenged societal norms regarding women in the field. By covering critical events with insight and courage, Gellhorn set a precedent for future generations of women journalists, demonstrating their capability to tackle difficult subjects traditionally dominated by men.
• Evaluate the significance of The Atlantic Monthly's evolution from print to digital media in maintaining its influence on public discourse.
  • The transition of The Atlantic Monthly from print to digital media marked a significant evolution that allowed it to maintain its influence on public discourse in an increasingly online world. This shift enabled the magazine to reach a broader audience and engage readers through multimedia content, interactive features, and social media. By adapting to changing consumer habits while preserving its commitment to quality journalism, The Atlantic Monthly continues to shape conversations on vital issues and remain relevant in today's fast-paced information landscape.

Related terms

Literary Journalism: A genre of writing that combines journalistic research with narrative techniques, allowing for a more in-depth exploration of subjects through storytelling.

Martha Gellhorn: An accomplished journalist and novelist known for her war reporting and contributions to The Atlantic Monthly, highlighting the role of women in journalism.

Feature Article: A detailed and well-researched piece of writing that explores a specific topic or issue, often found in magazines like The Atlantic Monthly.