American Literature:
Essential Questions
What is the relationship between place
and literature?
• How does geography help make literature?
• Do Americans respond to nature in a unique way?
• How do Americans shape
and reflect all the possibilities
of their dwelling place on
earth?
How does literature shape or reflect
society?
• Why do we need writers?
• They help produce our culture, and they are
the products of it.
• Writers celebrate America, define it, defy it,
and tell its story.
What makes American literature
American?
• Literature is “American” because it says
something fundamental about our identity as
Americans.
• What does it mean to be “American”?
What is the relationship between
place and literature?
• How does living in Atlanta and/or the South
affect your ideas about the world and/or
America?
• Briefly explain (3-5 sentences) the affect of
geography on your beliefs, ideas, customs,
etc.?
How does literature shape or reflect
society?
• Make a list of 3 famous Americans who
strongly influence you.
• You can include television personalities,
writers, movie directors, actors, athletes,
politicians, etc.
• Briefly explain (2-3 sentences each) why each
person is on your list
What makes American literature
American?
• Choose one item in your home that most
represents America to you.
• What does that item say about America?
• Briefly (3-4 sentences) explain why you chose
your item
Additional Instructions
• Be prepared to share your ideas in groups and
then as a class on Friday.
• You can make your work more interesting by
adding pictures, etc.
• Be creative