Write an essay about how the literature of america has changed over time, as seen in this semester's readings. you should select 4 important pieces of literature that you have read and use them to show how literature reflects history, as well as how literature reflects changes or events throughout history be sure to include a brief summary of the historical time periods for each . piece. consider elements such as theme, style, and tone in your analysis

Like other national literatures, American literature was shaped by the history of the country that produced it. For almost a century and a half, America was merely a group of colonies scattered along the eastern seaboard of the North American continent—colonies from which a few hardy souls tentatively ventured westward.

After a successful rebellion against the motherland, America became the United States, a nation. By the end of the 19th century this nation extended southward to the Gulf of Mexico, northward to the 49th parallel, and westward to the Pacific.

By the end of the 19th century, too, it had taken its place among the powers of the world—its fortunes so interrelated with those of other nations that inevitably it became involved in two world wars and, following these conflicts, with the problems of Europe and East Asia. Meanwhile, the rise of science and industry, as well as changes in ways of thinking and feeling, wrought many modifications in people’s lives.

All these factors in the development of the United States molded the literature of the country.