Question

How did Western expansion influence American literature?

a. Regionalism became more prevalent
b. More exposure to indigenous voices
c. Indigenous people disappeared from literature
d. Romantic literature regained popularity

Answer 1

Western expansion influenced American literature by increasing the prevalence of regionalism (option A) , providing exposure to indigenous voices (option B) , and impacting how indigenous people were portrayed in literature. (option C)

Step-by-step explanation:

Western expansion influenced American literature in several ways. First, regionalism became more prevalent. Regionalist writers focused on the details associated with a particular place, often creating complex narratives with main protagonists who provided the perspective through which the story was told. This shift towards focusing on specific regions added depth and authenticity to American literature.

Second, Western expansion provided more exposure to indigenous voices. As settlers moved westward, they encountered Native American tribes and their cultures. This interaction and exposure to indigenous people influenced American literature, allowing for a more diverse representation and perspective in storytelling.

Lastly, although indigenous people themselves did not disappear from literature, they did become less prominent as Western expansion brought about the displacement and marginalization of Native American tribes. This change in the landscape and social dynamics of the West was reflected in American literature, as authors grappled with the consequences and effects of Western expansion on indigenous populations.