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The Modern Age (1901-1999)

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).

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The Modern Age (1901-1999)

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  1. The Modern Age(1901-1999)

  2. Modern Age History and Literature is generally divided into two main categories: Early Twentieth Century (1901-1950) Late Twentieth Century (1951-2000)

  3. Early Twentieth Century (1901-1950) • Influences from the late 19th century (the Victorian Age) continued to affect 20th century thinking: • Charles Darwin – His theories of natural selection and survival affected views of science, religion, social classes, and even doctrines of racial superiority • Karl Marx – Advocated the abolition of private property and traced economic injustices to “the capitalist system of ownership.” • Sigmund Freud – Believed that motives of human behavior are NOT found in the rational, conscious mind but in the irrational, sexually driven unconscious.

  4. Early Twentieth Century (1901-1950) Cont’d. • The Great War: “A War to End All Wars” • The heroic idea of war was harshly met with realities of new technology in WWI • 60,000 young British men were killed or wounded on the first day of the Battle of Somme • 300,000 were killed, wounded, or frozen to death at the Battle of Ypres • The devastating losses of the war resulted in a cynical attitude toward government, national honor, and glory.

  5. Early Twentieth Century (1901-1950) Cont.d. III. Rise and Effects of World War II • Worldwide economic depression led to the rise of dictators (Italy, Germany, Russia) • Britain perseveres and is successful only after the U.S. and Soviet Union enter the war • Post-World War II Britain is transformed into a welfarestate—government provides medical care and other basic benefits for its citizens

  6. Late Twentieth Century (1951-2000) • Britain loses status as world power • British Empire loses several “colonies” to independence • British industry declines and Britain loses economic and political status in the world

  7. Effects Upon Literature • Much of the literature (especially following WWII) is dark and pessimistic • More dark comedy and satire are written • Many works portray a civilization in ruins (dystopia); traditional beliefs and morals are challenged

  8. Effects Upon Literature Cont’d. • A shift from Romanticism and the ideal to Impressionism and Modernism • Impressionism – Focus on experience • Modernism – Focuses on the inner self; personal perception are more valid than socially-determined norms.

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