a Social Realism

Part I: Describe the qualities of life in America that TWO of our authors this week were criticizing. Do these criticisms seem valid to make of today’s America?

Part II:  Try a gendered/ feminist reading of 2 readings not mentioned in your Part 1 response. Describe what the writers seem to be saying about masculinity and/or femininity. Are these stereotypes/expectations still present in contemporary life?

The readings:

Mark Twain: Author Bio Mark Twain War Prayer Charlotte Perkins Gilman: Author Bio Charlotte Perkins Gilman: The Yellow Wallpaper: Robert Frost: Author Bio Robert Frost: “Mending Wall” Edwin Arlington Robinson: Author Bio Edwin Arlington Robinson: Richard Cory Edwin Arlington Robinson: Miniver Cheevy Edith Wharton: Author Bio Edith Wharton: Roman Fever PLUS: Mark Twain The Story of the Bad Little Boy