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Modernism

Literary movement

About

Modernism was a pivotal literary movement that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, characterized by experimentation and innovation in form and style. It was influenced by industrialization, urbanization, and the aftermath of World War I, which led to themes of alienation and fragmentation. Writers like James Joyce and T.S. Eliot were key figures, employing techniques such as stream-of-consciousness and non-linear narratives to reflect the chaos of modern life. Modernist literature focused on individualism, often exploring the inner workings of characters' minds. It rejected traditional forms, embracing free verse in poetry and disrupting narrative continuity in prose. The movement was shaped by thinkers like Freud and Nietzsche, questioning traditional certainties. Modernism's impact was profound, paving the way for postmodernism and continuing to influence literature today. Its emphasis on experimentation and subjective experience remains a cornerstone of literary innovation.