Exploring the Cultural Values of the 1920s Through Literature and Art

The 1920s was a decade of dynamic cultural change. The post-World War I era saw significant changes in social behavior, intellectual life, and artistic expression. This was reflected in the works of literature and art produced during the period, which capture the zeitgeist of the times. In this article, we will explore the cultural values of the 1920s through literature and art.

The Roaring Twenties, as the decade came to be known, was a period of prosperity and excess. The United States was experiencing unprecedented economic growth and urbanization. This economic boom gave rise to a consumer culture, in which people began to buy more goods and services. It was the era of the flapper, jazz music, and Hollywood.

Literature played a significant role in reflecting the cultural values of the 1920s. Perhaps the most famous literary work of the decade was F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby. The novel is set in the hedonistic world of the wealthy elite, complete with extravagant parties and reckless behavior. It was a commentary on the excesses of the time, as well as the disillusionment that many felt after World War I.

Another prominent literary work of the 1920s was Ernest Hemingway’s The Sun Also Rises. The novel follows the lives of a group of expatriates living in Paris and their travels to Pamplona, Spain, to witness the running of the bulls. The book is notable for its spare, terse prose, which became a hallmark of Hemingway’s writing style. The Sun Also Rises is a meditation on the aimlessness and disillusionment of the Lost Generation.

Art also reflected the cultural values of the 1920s. The most famous art movement of the decade was undoubtedly the Harlem Renaissance, which showcased the talents of African American writers, artists, and musicians. The Harlem Renaissance was a celebration of African American culture and an attempt to challenge the prevailing racial stereotypes of the time.

Another influential art movement of the 1920s was Art Deco. This movement was characterized by its geometric shapes and bold, bright colors. Art Deco was applied to everything from architecture to fashion to interior design, and it came to symbolize the optimism and confidence of the era.

In summary, the literature and art of the 1920s provide a window into the cultural values of the time. The excesses and disillusionment of the post-World War I era were reflected in works like The Great Gatsby and The Sun Also Rises. Meanwhile, the Harlem Renaissance and Art Deco celebrated cultural diversity and optimism. The literature and art of the 1920s continue to be influential today, and they offer a fascinating glimpse into a pivotal moment in history.