19th century American literature

19th century American literature reflects a period of nation-building, exploration, and social change. It encompasses diverse voices, from transcendentalists like Emerson and Thoreau emphasizing individuality and nature, to realist writers like Twain and Dickinson exploring everyday life and human experience. The era addresses themes such as democracy, identity, and morality, often grappling with the legacy of slavery and expanding westward. Literature served as a means of defining American values, challenging traditions, and expressing unique national voices amid a rapidly evolving society.