The Early Romantics
The early American romantic writers may have been influenced more by the literature of another continent than by that of their own. Romanticism had first emerged in Europe in the late 18th century, in reaction to the neoclassicism of the period that had preceded it. Where neoclassical writers admired and imitated classical forms, the romantics looked to nature for inspiration. Where neoclassicists valued reason, the romantics celebrated emotions and the imagination. The first American romantic writers grew out of this European tradition, shaping and molding it to fit their unique American identity. They too were reacting to what had come before—the rationality of the Age of Reason and the strict doctrines of Puritanism.
Are you willing to pay any price?
People who’ll stop at nothing to achieve wealth, success, or fame are often said to have “sold their soul.” In other words, they have sacrificed something important—moral beliefs, privacy, family—in order to get what they want. Consider this kind of trade-off. Do you think it might ever be worth the consequences?
Literary Analysis: Satire
Irving was a master of satire, a literary device in which people, customs, or institutions are ridiculed with the purpose of improving society. Satire is often subtle, so as you read, watch for its indicators: humor, exaggeration, absurd situations, and irony.
Reading Skill: Interpret Imagery
Through the creative use of imagery—words and phrases that appeal to the five senses—Irving develops his characters and establishes mood.
As you read, use a chart to record images that support the story’s characterization and mood.
Thanatopsis
by William Cullen Bryant
William Cullen Bryant as an American romantic poet, journalist, and long-time editor of the New York Evening Post.
Born: November 3, 1794 Cummington, Massachusetts, U.S.
Died: June 12, 1878 (aged 83) New York City, New York, U.S.
"Thanatopsis" Project
This project requires you to show your understanding of the poem “Thanatopsis.”
Using the poster paper provided, create a three-panel illustration representing “Thanatopsis.” Each panel should represent a single stanza. Illustrations may be abstract, suggesting the poem’s themes and mood, or literal, depicting actual images from the poem. You may use any media you choose to create your panels, however, computer generated images are NOT allowed.
When you have finished the poster, you are to create an MLA formatted document and write a paragraph of NO MORE THAN 10 sentences explaining how your panels depict each particular stanza. Paper clip your explanation to the front of the poster and turn in to classwork.
The entire project is due at the end of class on Friday.
The Devil and Tom Walker
by Washington Irving
Washington Irving was an American short story writer, essayist, biographer, historian, and diplomat of the early 19th century.
Born: April 3, 1783 New York City, New York, U.S.
Died: November 28, 1859 (aged 76) Sunnyside, Tarrytown, New York, U.S