The writing produced by Americans of this period was practical, related to the events evolving around them. They wrote: – To defend – To justify – To persuade

Early American Literature continued with… – Early colonial literature included useful prose such as: reports and records, descriptions of the country, legal and governmental documents, private journals and diaries, and most importantly sermons. Settlers of the early colonies were too busy keeping themselves alive to produce a large body of literature. Only literary forms found in the Bible were acceptable and all forms of fiction was despised.

Myths Myth –an anonymous oral story The myth relies on the supernatural to explain a natural phenomenon, human behavior, or mystery Myths explain why the world is the way it is/they help make sense of the world Creation Myths: To explain the workings of the natural world To support and validate social customs To guide people through the trials of living To instill a sense of the mystery of the universe and attempts to explain that mystery

Literature began with… Native American myths and legends are the first known form of American Literature. – Used what is known as “oral tradition” There were 100s of thriving unique nations Each had/has its own tradition of literature that was passed down orally Families kept the tradition going; ceremonies were another place where oral stories were retold The stories often called myths can be an important part of Native American spiritual beliefs

Growing America became aware that much of their present miseries was a result of corrupt governments and outmoded economic policies. A “rational man” began to see that these problems could be swept away by intelligent legislation or revolution, if necessary.

Settling of AMERICA Columbus discovered North America in Native Americans were already inhabiting America. Europeans came over in the 17 th Century and the first European colony was settled in 1607 in Jamestown, VA. Skipping ahead… The 13 Colonies were established in – Delaware – Pennsylvania – New Jersey – Georgia – Connecticut – Georgia – Massachusetts Bay – Maryland – South Carolina – New Hampshire – Virginia – New York – North Carolina – Rhode Island