The Modern Age(1901-1999)

Modern Age History and Literature is generally divided into two main

categories:Early

Twentieth Century

(1901-1950)

Late Twentieth Century

(1951-2000)

Early Twentieth Century (1901-1950)I. Influences from the late 19th century (the

Victorian Age) continued to affect 20th century thinking:

A. Charles Darwin – His theories of natural selection and survival affected views of science, religion, social classes, and even doctrines of racial superiority

B. Karl Marx – Advocated the abolition of private property and traced economic injustices to “the capitalist system of ownership.”

C. Sigmund Freud – Believed that motives of human behavior are NOT found in the rational, conscious mind but in the irrational, sexually driven unconscious.

II. The Great War: “A War to End All Wars”A. The heroic idea of war was harshly met

with realities of new technology in WWIB. 60,000 young British men were killed

or wounded on the first day of the Battle of Somme

C. 300,000 were killed, wounded, or frozen to death at the Battle of Ypres

D. The devastating losses of the war resulted in a cynical attitude toward government, national honor, and glory.

Early Twentieth Century (1901-1950) Cont’d.

III. Rise and Effects of World War IIA. Worldwide economic depression led to

the rise of dictators (Italy, Germany, Russia)

B. Britain perseveres and is successful only after the U.S. and Soviet Union enter the war

C. Post-World War II Britain is transformed into a welfare state—government provides medical care and other basic benefits for its citizens

Early Twentieth Century (1901-1950) Cont.d.

I. Britain loses status as world power

A. British Empire loses several “colonies” to independence

B. British industry declines and Britain loses economic and political status in the world

Late Twentieth Century (1951-2000)

I. Much of the literature (especially following WWII) is dark and pessimistic

A. More dark comedy and satire are written

B. Many works portray a civilization in ruins (dystopia); traditional beliefs and morals are challenged

Effects Upon Literature

II. A shift from Romanticism and the ideal to Impressionism and Modernism

A. Impressionism – Focus on experience

B. Modernism – Focuses on the inner self; personal perception are more valid than socially-determined norms.

Effects Upon Literature Cont’d.