7/25/2019 Modernism (3)

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Literature IIG-EN 255

Principles and Characteristics of Modernism

Modernist thoughtis characterized by...

The conviction that modern life alienates the individual; it numbs persons

to their truest selves, cuts them off from any sense of belonging in the

world in a secure way.

The conviction that older forms of authority are decayed or useless, and

that the authority of the individual must be strengthened or people will be

overwhelmed by modern, mass society.

An international/multi-cultural perspective.

A faith in the power of art to save humanity from the deadening featuresof everyday life, especially the desensitizing elements of urban, industrial

society.

The belief that the artist is generally less appreciated but more sensitive,

even more heroic, than the average person.

The struggle for free expression, especially in sexual and political mat-

ters.

Modernist literatureis characterized by...

Emphasis upon innovationdisruption of traditional syntax and form; a

strong commitment to breaking away from both patterned responses andpredictable forms.

Artistic self-consciousness about questions of form and structure.

Interest in primitive materials and attitudes.

Celebrations of the ordinary textures and rhythms of life in extraordinary

ways.

Ironic stances and points of view (Modernists felt that to give in to emo-

tions involved them in an inaccurate, even dishonest, sentimentalism.)

Several contradictions are inherent in modernism, including...

Strong democratic impulses, but elitist attitudes about artists/intellectualsand scorn for simple (common) people and simple views.

Deep interest in lost traditions despite its drive to undermine traditions.

American