Final Answer:
The birth of literary modernism in Western literature is often associated with the late 19th and early 20th centuries, marked by significant shifts in artistic and literary expression.
Step-by-step explanation:
The birth of literary modernism corresponds to a period of significant cultural and intellectual upheaval in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This movement emerged as a response to the changing socio-political landscape and the impact of industrialization.
Late 19th Century: Modernist tendencies began to surface in the late 19th century with writers like Charles Baudelaire, who experimented with new forms and themes, breaking away from traditional norms.
Early 20th Century: The early 20th century saw the full bloom of literary modernism with prominent figures like Virginia Woolf, James Joyce, and T.S. Eliot. Their works, such as "Mrs. Dalloway," "Ulysses," and "The Waste Land," respectively, showcased a departure from conventional narrative structures, exploring stream of consciousness, non-linear timelines, and fragmented narratives.
Characteristics: Literary modernism is characterized by a deliberate departure from realism, an exploration of inner consciousness, and an embrace of unconventional narrative techniques.
Global Impact: The birth of literary modernism was not confined to a specific region but had a global impact, influencing literature across Western countries.
In summary, the birth of literary modernism in Western literature occurred during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with writers challenging established norms and experimenting with innovative forms of expression.