Which common theme from American literature do both passages develop?
In American literature, certain themes have stood the test of time and have been explored by numerous authors. One such common theme that has been consistently developed in various works is the struggle for identity and self-discovery. This theme is evident in both passages that we will analyze in this article, highlighting the authors’ exploration of the complexities of individual identity in the context of American society.
The first passage comes from “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald, a classic novel that captures the essence of the Roaring Twenties. The second passage is from “The Chosen” by Chaim Potok, a novel that delves into the Jewish-American experience. Despite the different settings and cultural backgrounds, both passages revolve around the theme of identity and self-discovery, making it a common thread in American literature.
In “The Great Gatsby,” the protagonist, Jay Gatsby, embodies the struggle for identity. Gatsby’s obsession with wealth and status is a reflection of his desire to fit into the American Dream, which he believes will bring him closer to his lost love, Daisy Buchanan. Throughout the novel, Gatsby’s pursuit of identity is constantly challenged by the materialistic and superficial nature of the 1920s society. Fitzgerald effectively portrays the complexities of American identity, as individuals grapple with their place in a rapidly changing world.
Similarly, “The Chosen” explores the theme of identity through the character of David Malter, a Jewish teenager growing up in pre-World War II Brooklyn. David faces the internal conflict of choosing between his religious heritage and his desire to fit in with his secular peers. Potok examines the tension between tradition and modernity, as David struggles to find his own identity amidst the pressures of his family and society. The novel highlights the importance of personal beliefs and the search for authenticity in the face of external expectations.
Both passages illustrate the common theme of identity and self-discovery in American literature. Through the characters’ struggles, the authors convey the idea that true identity is not solely defined by external factors such as wealth, social status, or religious beliefs, but rather by one’s inner values and beliefs. This theme resonates with readers across different generations and cultural backgrounds, as it reflects the universal quest for self-understanding and the search for one’s true self.
