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We will be talking all semester about the American character. We will read literature which will give us some insights into the value system of the American people from the beginning of exploration through the end of the 19th century. There are certain characteristics which seem to permeate almost all of this literature. Some of those values are implied and some are stated outright.
If you have always lived in the USA, you may be unaware of just how American you are. As teenagers in particular, we like to look at ourselves as individuals. It�s kind of like looking at Astrology. How is it that all of us fit into twelve different categories? We can�t. However, when one travels for any length of time outside the USA, especially if one stays in hostels or in the homes of people who live in other cultures, we find that Americans are different from the people in the culture that one is visiting. Sure, there are some similarities. But differences exist.
People can tell an American forty yards away, especially if he/she is talking. And I don�t mean in some culture where the native tongue is not English. In foreign countries we tend to be loud and stubborn. We know what we want and we tend to expect to be able to find whatever that is. We are accustomed to having a variety of goods from which to choose and are rather surprised when we discover the rest of the world doesn�t supply as many goods as we can find in the USA. Once again, I realize not all Americans fit into these categories. We are generalizing here.
Based on the characters and speakers and writers we have encountered this semester, what seem to be the most important American characteristics? How do those characteristics apply to our own world today? I hope you will enjoy this research. There is much to learn about ourselves in this process.
For instance, take a look at yourself and at your friends. Which of the American characteristics are still prevalent? To answer these questions, one must brainstorm as many of these values as possible. Start with your own private brainstorming.
In 1960, Edward Albee wrote an absurd little one act play entitled The American Dream which is a negative reflection (an absurd satire) on what Americans seem to want from their young people. The play clearly was a criticism of American society and how it values its youth. I am hoping that your research will discover much more positive traits in the American character.
Project Process:
As you tackle the readings from this course, jot down the characteristics of those about whom the pieces are written or the values of those doing the writing that seem to you to be uniquely American.
For instance, if one were to consider the Declaration of Independence, what values are inherent in that document?
In The Narrative of Olaudah Equiano, what characteristics are evident in the story that Equiano has shared.
When you look at the Fall of the House of Usher, what values and characteristics does Poe seem to believe are important?
After you have created a list of “American” characteristics on your own, discuss your list with your friends and family. Ask them to suggest other characteristics you might have overlooked.
After you have decided on a final list of characteristics, gather pieces of evidence from the various reading selections from the course to support your chosen American characteristics.
You will create an American character who exemplifies these characteristics. You may create your character
(by writing a short story in which he/she is the protagonist,)
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