The American literary canon is the product of numerous differing ideas and opinions, and it has evolved in various directions throughout its history. Our class has focused upon writing beginning with the Realists in the latter part of the 19th century and concluding with the Postmodernists.

In essay form, proceeding chronologically, discuss ways in which the literature of the United States has changed, using specific examples of writers and works representing these four periods: Realism, Naturalism or Psychological Realism, Modernism, and Postmodernism. It is advisable to include references to any significant critical reception within your chosen works and writers.