Memory and Identity in Modern and Postmodern American Literature

This book explores the relationship between memory and identity in American literature, focusing on how these themes are interconnected with dominant socio-cultural trends and historical contexts. It examines the memories of characters in The Great Gatsby, Light in August, A Streetcar Named Desire, Gerald's Party, Everything Is Illuminated, and Against the Day, highlighting the contextualization of memory and the role of the body in cognitive processes.

Format: Hardback
Length: 197 pages
Publication date: 17 September 2022
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This captivating book delves into the intricate relationship between American literary modernism and postmodernism, exploring the profound connection between memory and identity. It poses the intriguing question of whether and how the intertwining of memory and identity has been influenced by the dominant socio-cultural trends in the United States or by the specific historical contexts across the world.

The book begins with an insightful examination of the narrators memories of Jay Gatsby and his life depicted in F. Scott Fitzgeralds renowned novel, The Great Gatsby. The opening chapter sets the stage for the exploration that follows, delving into the depths of the narrators recollections and the significance of Gatsby within their personal narrative.

In the second chapter, William Faulkner's masterpiece, Light in August, takes center stage. Here, the author delves into the profound impact of memory on the characters' search for identity within the intricate storylines. Faulkner skillfully weaves memory into the fabric of the narrative, revealing how it shapes their actions, perceptions, and ultimately their sense of self.

The third chapter explores the intricate relationship between memory, self, and culture in Tennessee Williamss iconic play, A Streetcar Named Desire. The author examines how memory plays a central role in shaping the characters' identities, their relationships, and their struggles to define themselves in a complex social context. Through the vivid portrayal of characters and their interactions, the chapter sheds light on the complexities of memory and its role in constructing personal and cultural identities.

Moving on, the fourth chapter delves into Robert Coovers thought-provoking novel, Gerald's Party. Here, the author challenges the notion of a fixed and universal identity by exploring the contextualization of memory and identity. Coover's dehumanized characters, whose identities appear as role-plays, highlight the fluid and malleable nature of memory and identity. The chapter underscores the importance of understanding the interplay between cognitive processes, including memory, and the physical environment.

The subsequent chapter focuses on Jonathan Safran Foers remarkable work, Everything Is Illuminated. In this novel, Foer explores the legacy of Holocaust memories and postmemories, weaving a poignant narrative that explores the complexities of memory, trauma, and the search for meaning. Through his meticulous portrayal of characters and their experiences, Foer offers a profound reflection on the enduring impact of historical events on individual and collective identities.

The last chapter takes us to Thomas Pynchons monumental novel, Against the Day. Pynchon's work delves into the reconstructive nature of memory and the politics and production of identity in Southeastern Europe. The author examines how memory shapes the narratives of individuals and communities, highlighting the power of memory to both preserve and transform identities. Against the Day offers a thought-provoking exploration of the complexities of memory, history, and the construction of identity in a region marked by profound historical and cultural complexities.

In conclusion, this book offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the complex relationship between American literary modernism and postmodernism, memory, and identity. Through its rich narratives, critical analysis, and thoughtful insights, it provides a valuable contribution to the field of literary studies. By examining the interplay between memory and identity in various historical contexts, the book sheds light on the enduring significance of these concepts in shaping our understanding of the world and ourselves.

Weight: 483g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811950247
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022