Modernism period in US
What major historical event strongly shaped American Modernism?
World War I and II
Which migrant family is at the center of "Grapes of Wrath"?
The Joad family
What is the name of Sethe's surviving daughter?
Denver
Which general feature defines Modernist writing?
Breaking traditional narrative structure
The novel takes place during which economic crisis?
The Great Depression
Who does the mysterious young woman Beloved represent?
Sethe's dead baby returned in physical form
Why did many modernist writers focus on inner thoughts of characters?
To show how individuals struggle to make a sense of fast-changing world.
What drives the Joads to leave Oklahoma?
Drought, dust storms and bank foreclosures
Which major historical system shapes the character's trauma?
Slavery
Which narrative technique became common in American Modernism to show shifting viewpoints?
Stream of consciousness
Why is Route 66 important in the Joads’ journey?
It becomes a symbol of both hope and hardship as thousands travel the same road seeking a better life.
Why does Morrison use non-linear structure in the novel?
To show how past and present merge in the character's memories
How did American Modernism challenge earlier realism?
By using fragmented storytelling to reflect psychological uncertainty rather than stable objective reality
How does Steinbeck use the Joad's journey to criticize the American Dream?
By showing that hard work doesn't guarantee fairness and opportunity when systems are unjust
How does Beloved function symbolically beyond being a character?
She embodies unresolved history - both personal and collective trauma that refuses to fade