0Chirchik State Pedagogical University Current Issues of Modern Philology and Linguodidactics
Staatliche Pädagogische Universität Chirchik Aktuelle Fragen der modernen Philologie und Linguodidaktik
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THE SECOND WORLD WAR IN AMERICAN LITERATURE
Madina Farhodjon kizi Akhmedova
Chirchiq Davlat Pedagogika Universiteti Turizm fakulteti Xorijiy til va adabiyoti (ingliz tili) yo'nalishi 2-bosqich talabasi
Ilmiy rahbar : Chirchiq Davlat Pedagogika Universiteti o'qituvchisi Eldorbek Erkin ugli Khamitov
E-mail: xamitov.e@cspi.uz
ABSTRACT
This article explores the profound impact of the Second World War on American literature, tracing its influence through various literary genres and examining how authors grappled with the complexities of war, patriotism, trauma, and identity. From iconic works like Joseph Heller's "Catch-22" to lesser-known gems such as Ralph Ellison's "Invisible Man," the literature of this era reflects the diverse experiences of soldiers, civilians, and marginalized communities. Through a combination of close textual analysis and historical context, this article sheds light on the enduring legacy of the war in shaping American literary consciousness and cultural memory.
Keywords: The Second World War, Arthur Marwick , Social change, Cultural Change , Gore Vidal ,
INTRODUCTION
The Second World War stands as one of the most significant events in human history, reshaping societies, economies, and global politics. Its impact reverberated far beyond the battlefield, permeating every aspect of life, including the realm of literature. In the United States, the war inspired a rich tapestry of literary works that captured the complexities of the era and its aftermath. From the fervent patriotism of propaganda to the haunting reflections of veterans, American literature of the period reflects a nation grappling with the realities of war, sacrifice, and resilience.
This article delves into the profound influence of the Second World War on American literature, exploring how writers across genres responded to the tumultuous events of the time. Through an examination of key works and themes, we seek to uncover the ways in which authors wrestled with questions of morality, identity, and human experience in the shadow of global conflict. From the visceral horrors of combat to the quieter struggles of those left behind, these literary representations offer insights into the complexities of war and its enduring impact on American society.
April 23-24, 2024
272
Chirchik State Pedagogical University Current Issues of Modern Philology and Linguodidactics
Staatliche Pädagogische Universität Chirchik Aktuelle Fragen der modernen Philologie und Linguodidaktik
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By analyzing the diverse voices and perspectives present in the literature of the Second World War, we aim to shed light on the multifaceted nature of the American experience during this transformative period. Through close readings and contextual analysis, we will trace the evolution of themes such as heroism, trauma, and the search for meaning amidst chaos. Ultimately, this exploration seeks to illuminate the enduring relevance of these literary works, reminding us of the power of storytelling to capture the essence of human triumph and tragedy in times of conflict.
Social and Cultural Change
According to Arthur Marwick (1936-2006), a prominent perspective on the societal ramifications of the Second World War, total war had far-reaching impacts that extended beyond the evident bad effects of casualties, devastation, and displacement. In addition, they put social institutions to the test and brought about "progressive" social changes as a result of the necessity to mobilize the entire economy and society for the war effort. Since then, the study of how war affects society has grown significantly, with a great deal of research focusing on the social, cultural, political, and economic effects of the Second World War . Marwick also stated that both world wars saw more women employed in a broader range of jobs, and that after 1945, women would have greater options and a more equal status in society. Certainly, many women found the war liberating. They served in the military services and worked in government offices, fields, and factories, as well as Hitler's bunker and Churchill's underground Cabinet War Rooms. Hitler's pilot, Hanna Reitsch (19121979), piloted the last plane into and out of Berlin, when Soviet troops were already present. Women were granted the right to vote in Britain and Germany following World War I, as well as general declarations of equal citizenship in France and Italy in 1945 and 1946. Some historians have questioned whether the war experience transformed women's positions in postwar society, and whether many women desired such a change.
American literature
Gore Vidal was one of the first authors to come out of World War II. He drew on his experiences as a naval commander in the Aleutian Islands for his first book, Williwaw (1946). After his second book, In a Yellow Wood, was published the following year, he found himself "very much on view with the other young lions of the second postwar generation." It was an unexpected bestseller. The media was curious as to whether we would also be "lost." Several of these "young lions" were highlighted in the magazine Life, which included a seductive full-page photo of Truman Capote. According to Vidal, "thus began his career as a celebrity." Vidal was 20; he was 21. In his 1995 book, he reflected, "In those days, works of literature were often pop-
April 23-24, 2024
273
Chirchik State Pedagogical University Current Issues of Modern Philology and Linguodidactics
Staatliche Pädagogische Universität Chirchik Aktuelle Fragen der modernen Philologie und Linguodidaktik
Chirchiq davlat pedagogika universiteti Zamonaviy filologiya va lingvodidaktikaning dolzarb masalalari
ular—something no longer possible."
When Vidal relocated to Paris in the late 1940s, he slept at the hotel where Sartre and de Beauvoir hosted parties after being chased out of the Café Flore by throngs of admiring visitors.
Literature's increasing global renown matched its growing appeal in the United States. Not only was Great Britain's oppression and the continent's literary publishing industry destroyed, but European refugees fleeing Nazism also contributed to New York's status as the midcentury cultural hotbed. The Soviet Union's refugees would soon arrive.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, the literature of the Second World War serves as a poignant testament to the enduring impact of this global conflict on American society and culture. Through a diverse array of voices and perspectives, authors grappled with the complexities of war, offering insights into the human experience in times of crisis.As we reflect on the legacy of the Second World War in American literature, it becomes evident that these works are more than mere historical artifacts—they are timeless reminders of the enduring human spirit. Through their words, authors have captured the essence of courage, compassion, and perseverance, inspiring generations to confront the challenges of their own time with similar resolve.
Ultimately, the literature of the Second World War stands as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling to shape our understanding of the past, present, and future. As we continue to navigate the complexities of our own era, may we draw inspiration from the voices of the past, finding strength in the words of those who dared to confront the darkness and emerge with a renewed sense of hope and humanity.
REFERENCES
1. Eldorbek, K. (2023). ERRORS IN TRANSLATION OCCURRING DUE TO ASYMMETRIES IN THE TARGET AND SOURCE LANGUAGES. Finland International Scientific Journal of Education, Social Science & Humanities, 11(2), 289292
2. Society and Consciousness during World War II
3. The effects of World War II on American literature by R.Oliver -2018.
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