Contemporary Literature Notes

1. Contemporary Literature Notes 1939 to present

2. Influences on Contemporary Literature

3. Political high lights • World War II ends in 1945. • Soviet Union becomes a nuclear power in 1949- creates a dangerous competition with the US. • Soviet Union’s Cold War ends in 1991.

4. Philosophical Views • 1950s creates a culture of conformity and anti-Communism. • 1980s post-modernism takes root in philosophy, linguistics, and literature. • Traditional views are challenged by multiculturalism due to different views of what writers should write and students should read.

5. Social Influences • The 1960s rejects the 1950s’ conformity, and art is in favor of dissent and experimentation. • 1990s communication revolution promises new levels of prosperity.

6. Elements of Contemporary Literature 1939-Present

7. Accepts multiple meanings and multiple worlds • Desires more non-traditional forms of structure • Makes comments on itself (metafiction) • Can be intensely personal

8. Features cultural diversity • Blends fiction and non-fiction writing • Uses the past fearlessly