Final Answer:
The key Modernist trope of nautical literature began to solidify, focusing on the exploration of existential themes and the human condition within the vast and unpredictable expanse of the sea.
Step-by-step explanation:
The emergence of the key Modernist trope in nautical literature marked a profound shift in thematic emphasis. Rather than adhering to traditional maritime narratives centered solely around adventure or exploration, Modernist writers began to delve into the complexities of the human experience set against the backdrop of the sea.
The ocean, often depicted as an enigmatic and tumultuous force, served as a metaphor for the existential challenges and uncertainties faced by individuals in the early 20th century. This thematic evolution was not merely confined to the physical aspects of seafaring but extended to the psychological and philosophical dimensions of human existence.
In this literary context, the sea became a symbol for the vastness of the human psyche and the uncertainties of life. Writers such as Joseph Conrad and T.S. Eliot explored the existential isolation of individuals navigating the turbulent waters of their own consciousness. The nautical setting provided a rich metaphorical landscape for expressing the anxiety, alienation, and ambiguity that characterized the Modernist worldview.
The sea, with its boundless horizons and unpredictable nature, became a powerful symbol for the search for meaning and identity in a rapidly changing world. Through the lens of nautical literature, Modernist writers engaged with the profound questions of human existence, creating a distinctive and enduring trope that continues to influence literature and art to this day.