Chapter I. Background

 

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CHAPTER I. BACKGROUND 
1.1 Background of English Modernism: 
English modernism emerged in the early 20th century as a response to the 
changing cultural, social, and political landscapes of the time
1
. It was a period 
characterized by a sense of unease, marked by the aftermath of World War I, the 
decline of traditional institutions, and the questioning of established societal values. 
English modernist writers sought to break away from the conventions of Victorian 
literature and explore new forms of artistic expression that reflected the fragmented 
and uncertain nature of the modern world. 
One of the key characteristics of English modernism was the innovative use of 
the stream of consciousness narrative technique. Stream of consciousness allowed 
writers to delve into the depths of characters' minds, capturing the seemingly 
random and fluid flow of thoughts and perceptions. This technique aimed to depict 
the complexities and intricacies of human consciousness, portraying the inner 
workings of characters' thoughts and emotions. Authors such as Virginia Woolf, 
James Joyce, and Dorothy Richardson are celebrated for their mastery of this 
narrative style, where the boundary between external reality and internal 
consciousness became blurred. 
Another significant characteristic of English modernism 
was the 
experimentation with form. Modernist authors challenged traditional linear 
narratives and conventional plot structures, opting instead for non-linear 
storytelling techniques. Time became fluid, with flashbacks, flash-forwards, and 
fragmented narratives used to create a sense of disorientation and to mirror the 
disjointed experiences of characters in a rapidly changing world. Multiple 
perspectives were also employed, allowing readers to see events and situations 
from different viewpoints, further emphasizing the subjective nature of reality. 
Works such as James Joyce's "Ulysses" and Virginia Woolf's "To the Lighthouse" 
exemplify the innovative approaches to form that characterized English modernism. 
In addition to narrative techniques and form, English modernism also rejected 
the traditional social and cultural norms of its time. Authors presented a critical 
examination of gender roles, challenging traditional expectations and exploring the 
fluidity of identity. Themes of sexuality and social class were also explored, 
providing a platform for important discussions on these topics and shedding light 
on their role in shaping individual experiences. English modernist writers aimed to 
1
"Modernism: A Very Short Introduction" by Christopher Butler (2000) page 12

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challenge societal conventions, giving voice to marginalized perspectives and 
offering alternative narratives that reflected the diverse realities of the modern era. 
The influence of societal, cultural and historical factors on English
modernist literature: 
English modernist literature was deeply influenced by the societal, cultural, and 
historical factors of the early 20th century. These factors played a significant role in 
shaping the themes, styles, and perspectives explored by modernist writers, 
allowing them to challenge and critique the prevailing beliefs and values of their 
time. 
One of the key influences on English modernism was the aftermath of World 
War I. The war caused widespread disillusionment and shattered the belief in the 
progress of civilization. The trauma and devastation experienced during the conflict 
deeply impacted writers and their works. Authors such as T.S. Eliot and Wilfred 
Owen, both of whom served in the war, reflected the disillusionment, despair, and 
sense of loss in their poetry. The war's impact on the modernist consciousness also 
led to a questioning of traditional structures and belief systems, inspiring writers to 
seek new ways of expressing their experiences and grappling with the changing 
world. 
The cultural atmosphere of the early 20th century, with its rapid technological 
advancements and urbanization, also influenced English modernism. The advent of 
the machine age and the rise of industrialization brought about a sense of alienation 
and fragmentation. Modernist writers responded to this by exploring themes of 
isolation, depersonalization, and the disintegration of human connections. The city, 
with its bustling streets, crowded spaces, and diverse social interactions, became a 
symbol of the chaotic modern world. Authors like James Joyce captured this urban 
experience in their works, portraying the struggles and confusions of characters 
navigating the complexities of city life
2
. 
Furthermore, the feminist movement and the changing roles of women in 
society had a profound impact on the themes and perspectives of English modernist 
literature. With the suffrage movement gaining momentum in the early 20th 
century, women began to challenge traditional gender roles and demand greater 
autonomy. Modernist authors such as Virginia Woolf embraced these ideas, 
2
"James Joyce: A Critical Guide" by Henry Jeffery (2009) page 56

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exploring themes of female identity, the constraints of patriarchy, and the 
complexities of women's experiences. Woolf's works, such as "Mrs. Dalloway" and 
"A Room of One's Own," tackled issues of gender inequality and the quest for self-
expression
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, making significant contributions to feminist literature.