The American Renaissance: A History

Question 1 

The American Renaissance took place around the 1830s just after the occurrence of civil war, a period in which American Literature was in the making with the American society being described through literature, music, and art. Washington Irving wrote his humorous narrative Rip Van Winkle at around 1818. By mentioning the late Knickerbocker, a previous author of literature, it seems like he is ushering a rebirth of the American Renaissance. Irving makes the short story an American one since it is set at the Catskill Mountains in New York, He is an American who writes about a Dutch-American during colonialism in America, who falls asleep and wakes up after American Revolution has occurred. 

Question 2 

Irving frames the short story by introducing the literature by Cartwright and a lengthy explanation of the works and memories of Knickerbocker. He does this as he tries to bring about the difference that exists between true historical accounts and folktales. He communicates to readers that not all folktales or narratives depict true records of what has occurred in history. 

Question 3 

It is funny how Rip Van Winkle sleeps and wakes up after 20 years to a lot of changes, including his missing dog, one-foot-long beard, rotting, and rusted musket and not being able to be recognized or to recognize anyone (Irving, 1930). He also comes back home to a full-grown daughter who the mother’s loud nagging and bossiness resurrected in her. 

Question 4 

The character that Dame Winkle portrays is fair. She keeps on telling her husband, though, with a high tone to be more productive and useful to his family. Her role makes women more significant in society since she points out to unproductive and lazy men in society to change ways and be helpful to their families. 

Question 5 

The short story is likened to the American Dream since, after the revolutionary war, there was a freedom that paved the way for opportunities for all society members to allow for success and prosperity. It is a true reflection of the American dream, which champions equality regardless of class, gender, or race. 

References 

Irving, W., Darley, F., & Simms, C. (1930). Rip van Winkle: a posthumous writing of Diedrich Knickerbocker . Limited Editions Club.