Literature of the 1880s

            The 1880s was at the core of the Second Industrial Revolution and part of Gilded Age. This economic boom and modernization inspired many American writers to publish books. For example writers such as Theodore Dreiser, Mark Twain, and Frederick Douglass wrote about their environment. 1880s literature impacted the society and these writers knew that that their times would be similar to now days.

            Theodore Dreiser wrote a book called Sister Carrie, which is about two characters named George Hurstwood and Carrie Meeber, whose circumstances are completely opposites. George is a middle class man who falls from high class and ends up on the streets and Carrie is a low class woman who is a waitress and works towards her American Dream of become a high-paid actress. Dreiser wrote this book in order to show happiness is not always pursued through money or fame. Although George and Carrie were wealthy, they were not truly happy. Many people during the 1880s lived “gilded” lifestyles in which they appeared to have a great life and looked good on the outside but in reality they were unsatisfied.

            Mark Twain was another author who made a change in American literature. He wrote the book, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. The purpose of this book was to show inequality and racism of society through the adventure of Huck Finn. In the story Huck helps a slave escape, which to society is seen as wrong, but Huck realizes that we are all people and should be treated equally. Mark Twain uses Huck to portray some of his beliefs. For example he shows throughout the book that society is constantly undervaluing people, like blacks. Also, nature is also used in the story and is meant to be seen as an escape from civilization. Huck Finn travels down to a river which is symbolic of freedom and independence and in nature is where he learns new things and becomes his own person. Mark Twain believes we live of society, but true englightment can come from nature.

            Frederick Douglass is one of the most important figures in the African American society. Douglass wrote an autobiography called Life and Times of Frederick Douglass in which he wrote about many of his accomplishments in life and his involvement in changing the African American society. One of Douglass’s main purposes in life was to acquire equal rights for African Americans so he became an abolitionist. In his early life he was a slave which is why he preached the message of equality for all people. His efforts and writings inspired many, including whites, to join the Anti-Slavery movement, changing the American society.

            In conclusion, literature of the 1880s molded the view many had of America’s ideal society. Such writers changed America and that is why till this day they are remembered. America continues to grow and change and literature continues to be written.