American literature

In this course I have learnt a lot about the national literature of the Unite States since the early 19 th
century. The relatively short history of the American nation has helped me understand the culture and
history of America; a nation that has gone through dramatic changes economically, socially, and
culturally. I have also learnt about the major literary movements; romanticism, realism, and
transcendentalism as well as the authors who have largely contributed to the improvement of American
Literature in various aspects. In addition, I have understood the evolution of American literature to its
contemporary form as well as the basic foundations that the present day American literature is based
upon. This course has greatly impacted my approach to reading. Today, I am able to read, and analyze
texts effectively. The course has also helped me develop further my literacy skills like vocabulary.

Norton anthology is a book that does a great job as it provides literature from early colonial days in
America history up to transcendentalism. Reading this book has been enjoyable because I like
comparing historical texts to American history. The letters of John and Abigail Adams happens to be my
favourite piece in this book. The piece provides an insightful record of life in America; before,
during and after the revolution. The letters also reveal a relationship between John and Abigail
that was emotionally and intellectually fulfilling and lasted for fifty-four years withstanding
personal tragedies, long periods apart, and historical upheavals. The letters cover significant
moments in the history (the continental congress, the revolutionary war, drafting of the
Independence declaration, and John Adams’ diplomatic missions to Europe) of America as they
disclose worries of a couple living in times of explosive change, from British warships and
smallpox to bringing up children, the state of women, paying taxes, and the emergent ideas of
American Democracy. John and Abigail Adams have greatly influenced the lens through which I
look at issues of power. The letters give a picture of a marriage of equals in a time when women
could not vote or take part in public life directly according to history. For example, Abigail
Adam, through her famous appeal ‘remember the ladies’, argued that the new nation should be
governed by rules that recognize women as something more than property and guard them from
the uncontrolled and arbitrary power that men had over them.

Through this course I have gained quite a number of essential skills applicable in day to day
activities. First I have successfully developed my communication skills. This course has helped
me in interpretation of texts and I am able to express my ideas through oral, written and visual
communication effectively. Through analyzing, evaluating, and synthesizing information I have
developed critical thinking skills. These skills are very essential as they will help me understand
the other courses I am taking. Communication skills will help me in situations that involve
teamwork as I will be able to consider different points of view as well as work with other people
in support of common goals. The ability to connect my actions, choices, and consequences to
ethical decision-making will automatically advocate for personal responsibility. Further, these
skills will help me to be socially responsible in my future life as I will be able to participate
excellently in the regional, national, and global communities.