What issues influenced the literature in 17th century America?
A the need to create fiction as an escape from harsh living conditions
B exploration of the new land, the sights and wonders
C the journey of the settlers from their homes in Europe
D politics and the struggle for food and shelter
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is D) politics and the struggle for food and shelter.
In 17th century America, literature was profoundly influenced by the harsh realities of colonial life, including the political struggles and the constant fight for survival. Early settlers faced numerous challenges, such as hostile relations with Indigenous peoples, disease, and a lack of resources, which made the journey and establishment of colonies arduous. The harsh living conditions shaped the thematic elements of literature produced during this period.
Writers such as Anne Bradstreet and Edward Taylor articulated their experiences, reflecting the difficulties of daily life in their poetry and prose. They often grappled with issues of faith, survival, and the moral dilemmas faced in a new world. The necessity to cultivate land, secure food, and provide shelter created a backdrop of struggle that permeated their works. The settlers’ reliance on agriculture and the community’s collaborative efforts to face starvation and harsh winters became focal points in their writings, illustrating the resilience of the human spirit amidst adversity.
Moreover, the political landscape, including tensions between European powers and conflicts within the colonies themselves, also influenced literature. The establishment of governance systems, like the Mayflower Compact, provided material for exploration of themes such as democracy, order, and societal structure in literature. Writers often addressed issues of governance, law, and the relationship between settlers and their mother countries, reflecting the political complexities of their time.
In essence, the literature of 17th century America was a product of its environment—one that emphasized the need to address the pressing concerns of survival and governance, shaping the identity and values of the emerging American society.