FEDERAL URDU UNIVERSITY OF ARTS, SCIENCE AND

TECHNOLOGY

NAME : AQSA
F. NAME : KHALIL
PROGRAM : BS
SEMESTER : VIII
ROLL NO : 13052103
DEPARTMENT : ENGLISH LITERATURE
SUBJECT : AMERICAN LITERATURE
SUBJECT HEAD : MA’AM YUMNA KHATOON
 S.NO INDEX PAGE NO

Assignment no 1

1 Despondency and Introduction to 3-4

female American writers
2 Louisa May Alcott's legacy of 4
despondency
3 Little women 4-5

4 Maya Angelou's legacy of despondency 5-7

5 Women work 7-8

Assignment no 2

1 Eco criticism 9

2 Arctic dream 9-10

3 Refuge: An unnatural history of family 11-12

and place

ASSIGNMENT NO: 1
The female American writers from Louisa May Alcott to Maya Angelou
represented the legacy of despondency in America. Elaborate the statement in
the light of two textual evidences.

DEFINITON OF DESPONDENCY:
According to oxford advanced learner’s dictionary,
(1)‘Despondency means state of being low in spirits, state of being hopeless and dejected.’

INTRODUCTION OF FEMALE AMERICAN WRITERS:

Emily Dickinson (1830–1886)
Emily Dickinson was a famous American poet known for her unique and thoughtful poems about life,
nature, and emotions. Dickinson’s poetry often delves into themes of mortality, isolation, and the
enigmatic aspects of existence.

Notable Work: Her poem “I heard a Fly buzz – when I died” is a notable example of her contemplation of
death and the afterlife.

Louisa May Alcott (1832–1888)

Alcott was a prolific author, writing novels, short stories, and poems, many of which reflected her
progressive views on women’s rights and social issues of her time and she was also an abolitionist and
feminist.

Notable Work: Little Women,” is a semi-autobiographical novel that follows the lives of the four March
sisters—Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy—and their coming of age in Civil War-era New England

Kate Chopin (1850–1904):

Chopin was an American author known for her insightful and groundbreaking literary works, particularly
her exploration of themes related to women’s issues, individual freedom, and societal restriction.

Notable Work: Chopin’s novel “The Awakening” is a powerful exploration of a woman’s struggle for
independence and identity, ending in a tragic and despondent conclusion.

Maya Angelou (1928–2014) :

Angelou was an influential American author, poet, and civil rights activist. She is best known for her
autobiographical works. Angelou used her powerful voice and storytelling abilities to shine a light on the
challenges faced by marginalized communities.

Notable Work: In “Woman Work,” Maya Angelou writes about the experiences of a black woman in
America who juggles the roles of a mother, homemaker, and laborer. The poem highlights the never-
ending nature of her responsibilities, but also emphasizes her resilience and her appreciation for the
peace found in nature.

LOUISA MAY ALCOTT REPRESENTED THE LEGACY OF DESPONDENCY IN AMERICA:

Louisa May Alcott (1832–1888) was an American author born into a family with strong ties to the New
England intellectual and literary elite of the 19 th century. Her father, Amos Bronson Alcott, was a noted
transcendentalist philosopher, educator, and writer, while her mother, Abigail May Alcott, came from a
socially progressive and intellectual family.

Alcott was one of the earliest famous female writers in America. As the second of four sisters, she
witnessed how society restricted women’s freedom. Women couldn’t vote, work, or even own anything,
including their children.

Louisa May Alcott’s upbringing was influenced by the philosophical and literary movements of her time,
including transcendentalism, which emphasized individualism, self-reliance, and the importance of
nature. The Alcott household was a meeting place for prominent thinkers and writers of the era, and
Louisa was exposed to progressive ideas and intellectual discussions from an early age.

Against this backdrop, Louisa May Alcott developed her own literary talents, drawing inspiration from
her surroundings and the intellectual environment in which she was raised. Her experiences within this
influential literary and philosophical setting greatly informed her writing and contributed to the themes
of individualism, social justice, and personal growth that are evident in her most famous work, “Little
Women.”

LITTLE WOMAN

“Little Women” by Louisa May Alcott is a classic novel that follows the lives of the four March sisters;
Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy. The novel begins with the March sisters facing various challenges while their
father is away serving as a chaplain in the war. Despite their limited resources, the sisters, guided by
their wise and loving mother, Marmee, learn the importance of unconditional love, sacrifice, and
selflessness.

Meg, the oldest sister, is responsible and longs for a traditional life filled with love and domesticity. Jo, an
aspiring writer, is independent, spirited, and dreams of success and freedom. Beth is gentle, kind-
hearted, and finds solace in her music. Amy, the youngest, possesses artistic talent and seeks refinement
and beauty.

As the sisters navigate their teenage years and early adulthood, they encounter a series of trials and
tribulations, experiencing love, loss, disappointment, and personal growth. They learn valuable lessons
about the complexities of friendship, the importance of forgiveness, and the power of resilience. The
bond they share remains steadfast, even as they pursue their individual paths in life.
Through the characters of the March sisters, Alcott crafted a story that transcends time “Little Women”
explores themes of womanhood, the pursuit of dreams, the challenges of societal expectations, and the
value of familial love and support.

At its core, “Little Women” is a heartwarming and inspiring tale that celebrates the power of sisterhood,
the triumph of the human spirit, and the enduring nature of love.

DESPONDENCY:

“The aspect of the whole place had changed as if by magic, and Jo saw everywhere the signs
of past festivity, as if sorrow had been banished, and the grey desolation of despair was hidden
beneath wreaths and garlands.” (2)

The entire atmosphere of the place seemed to have transformed completely, as if through some sort of
enchantment. Jo noticed that everywhere she looked, there were clear indications of past celebrations
and joyous occasions. It was as if all the sadness had vanished, and the gloomy feeling of hopelessness
had been concealed beneath beautiful wreaths and decorative garlands.

The theme of despondency is interwoven with other aspects of the story, and these examples provide a
glimpse into moments where the characters experience despair or hopelessness.

Throughout the story, the characters experience various forms of melancholy, disappointment, and
discouragement. For example, the March family faces financial struggles and the absence of their father,
who is serving as a chaplain in the war. As a result, they often find themselves feeling despondent and
overwhelmed by their circumstances.

MAYA ANGELOU:
Maya Angelou, born as Marguerite Annie Johnson on April 4, 1928, was an acclaimed American author,
poet, civil rights activist, and actress. She is widely regarded as one of the most influential and beloved
figures in American literature and has left an unfading mark on society through her powerful writing and
activism. Angelou’s life was marked by immense challenges, personal growth, and an unwavering
commitment to fighting for equality and justice.

Born in St. Louis, Missouri, Angelou experienced a turbulent childhood. At the age of seven, she was sent
to live with her grandmother in the racially segregated town of Stamps, Arkansas. This formative
experience laid the foundation for Angelou’s understanding of racial inequality and became a recurring
theme in her work.

Despite the hardships she faced, Angelou discovered her love for literature and storytelling at a young
age. She voraciously read and absorbed the works of influential writers, developing her own unique
voice and style. Angelou’s writing often explored themes of identity, race, gender, and resilience,
resonating with readers from all walks of life.
In addition to her acclaimed writing career, Maya Angelou was an active participant in the civil rights
movement. Her commitment to equality extended beyond her activism, as she became the first African
American woman to have a screenplay produced and nominated for an Academy Award.

She went on to publish numerous poetry collections, essays, and memoirs, all of which garnered critical
acclaim and cemented her status as a literary icon.

Throughout her life, Maya Angelou received numerous awards and honors, including the Presidential
Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States. She continued to inspire and uplift
others through her storytelling, teaching, and public speaking engagements until her passing on May 28,
2014.

Maya Angelou’s contributions to literature, civil rights, and the arts are immeasurable. Her powerful
words continue to vibrate, encouraging individuals to find their own voices, embrace their identities, and
try for a more just society.

“Women Work” by Maya Angelou is a powerful and evocative poem that celebrates the tireless labor of
women and their endless responsibilities. The poem portrays various domestic tasks and emphasizes the
weight of societal expectations placed upon women.

The speaker in the poem expresses the demanding routine of a woman’s life through vivid descriptions
of everyday chores such as washing clothes, ironing, cooking, and cleaning. The poem highlights the
repetitiveness, physical exertion, and monotony of these tasks, showcasing the careful nature of a
woman’s work.

Maya Angelou, through her poetic language, conveys the immense strength and resilience of women.
The poem suggests that women have historically been undervalued and overshadowed by men’s work. It
touches upon the feelings of exhaustion, frustration, and moments of respite that women experience,
emphasizing their endurance and determination to fulfill their duties regardless.

As the poem progresses, Angelou urges society to recognize and appreciate the contributions of women.
She reminds readers that women possess their own dreams, desires, and aspirations beyond their
domestic responsibilities. Just as men strive for fulfillment in their vocations, Angelou highlights that
women also seek recognition and support for their ambitions and individuality.

In essence, “Women Work” by Maya Angelou serves as a portrayal of the arduous, often overlooked
labor performed by women. Through her expressive words, Angelou prompts society to value women’s
work and to create a more equitable world where women’s dreams and desires are acknowledged and
honored.

WOMAN WORK:

“Woman Work” is a powerful poem written by Maya Angelou that explores the theme of despair and the
heavy burden of responsibility placed on women. The poem delves into the monotonous and often
unnoticed tasks performed by women in their daily lives, highlighting their tireless efforts and the
emotional toll it takes on them.
The theme of despair is evident from the very first line of the poem: “I’ve got the children to tend.” Here,
Angelou establishes the overwhelming responsibilities faced by women, such as taking care of their
children and managing the household. Throughout the poem, Angelou presents a series of physically
demanding tasks, such as ironing, cooking, and planting, which serve as metaphors for the mental and
emotional burden carried by women.

The poem takes us through a journey of the speaker’s relentless effort, as she labors through various
activities, both inside and outside the home. The repetitive nature of the poem reflects the cyclical
nature of women’s work, further emphasizing their sense of despondency. Angelou beautifully captures
the exhaustion that arises from these tasks and the lack of recognition society often affords to women
for their labor.

In addition to the physical burden, Angelou also highlights the emotional weight experienced by women.
The line “I’ve got the blues that don’t quit” suggests a deep sense of sadness and despair. This emotional
heaviness is further emphasized through the imagery of rain and mud, creating a gloomy atmosphere
that mirrors the speaker’s state of mind.

Angelou skillfully captures the contrast of women’s work, showcasing both the beauty and the hardship
that comes with it. The poem reflects on the inequality and lack of appreciation experienced by women
in society, bringing attention to the emotional toll this burden takes.

Overall, “Woman Work” by Maya Angelou explores the theme of despair through vivid descriptions of
the physical and emotional labor endured by women. By examining the struggles and burdens they face,
Angelou sheds light on the often overlooked and undervalued contributions of women, while also
highlighting the urgent need for societal change and recognition

DESPONDENCY:

I have borne children, squeezed them through my struggle,

Nurtured them with the sweat of my brow,

Yet society still sees me as weak, as lesser,

Invisible in the shadows of my own strength.(3)

This stanza expresses the frustration and injustice felt by the speaker, who is a woman, in society. The
speaker talks about the physical and emotional effort of bearing and raising children, emphasizing their
strength and the sacrifices made. Despite these efforts, society continues to view them as weak and
inferior. They feel their strength and contributions are overlooked or overshadowed, resulting in a feeling
of invisibility and being undervalued.

“Woman Work” as a reflection on the experiences and challenges faced by women, particularly African-
American women, in society. The poem touches upon the often overlooked or dismissed work that
women perform both inside and outside the home. Maya Angelou, with her insightful and evocative
writing, reminds us of the immense contributions of women and calls for a greater recognition and
appreciation of their work in society.

CONCLUSION:

To conclude, Literature is created not just to entertain, but also to provide guidance and education. The
in depth discussion supports the notion that Louisa May Alcott and Maya Angelou, despite facing difficult
and challenging lives, remained committed, loyal, and determined to find healing through their despair.
As a result of the tragic events they experienced, they became isolated and disconnected from their
surroundings. To put it simply, Alcott and Angelou used their writing to cope with their hardships and
find solace amidst their struggles.

Their minds serve as a platform to confront and combat the decline caused by cultural, religious, and
social destruction. This allows for the exploration of fresh perspectives based on logic and knowledge,
paving the way for future generations to attain enlightenment and progress.
Assignment No : 2
“Eco-Criticism and the Environment in American Literary
Texts”. Elaborate in textual evidences of two texts

Eco-criticism:
A critical approach to study the work of literature. Eco means ecology which
studies the human relationship with the environment
Cheryll Glotfelty is the first professor of literature and environment according to
her:
Eco criticism is the
“Eco criticism is the study of the relationship between literature and the physical
environment” (4)

“Arctic Dreams”
 “Arctic Dreams” is a non-fiction book written by American author Barry
Lopez and published in 1986.
 Arctic Dreams” by Barry Lopez won the National Book Award for Nonfiction
in 1986.
 The book “Arctic Dreams” by Barry Lopez is a non-fiction book that explores
the Arctic region its landscapes, wildlife, and the people who inhabit it.
 The book is not a narrative or story in the traditional sense, but rather a
collection of observations, reflections, and research on the Arctic
 It is a seminal work that explores the Arctic region and its significance for
human imagination, culture, and environmental protection.
 Lopez is a celebrated writer and naturalist, known for his expressive and
lyrical prose, his deep connection to the natural world, and his exploration
of various cultures and environments.
 He offers insights into the natural history and ecology of the Arctic,
highlighting the adaptations and survival strategies of its animals.
Additionally, Lopez reflects on the complex relationship between humans and the
Arctic, exploring the history of exploration and exploitation of the region, its
impact on native communities, and the pressing issue of climate change.
Lopez says in Arctic Dreams:
“The Arctic landscape has inspired artists, poets, and explorers for centuries…
The lure of the Arctic lies in its power to evoke the human imagination, to
inspire dreams and ignite a sense of wonder.” (5)

 In this passage, Lopez explores for artists, poets, and explorers,

 the Arctic represents a place of infinite possibility, a place where dreams
are made and where the human spirit is tested and strengthened.
 It is a place of great mystery and wonder, where the natural world is still
largely unexplored and where new discoveries can still be made.
 This text evidence from “Arctic Dreams” demonstrate Barry Lopez’s eco-
critical perspective through his descriptions of the Arctic landscapes,
discussions of human impact, reflections on climate change, and
exploration of the connection between nature and human imagination.
 Lopez enhances our understanding of the Arctic’s beauty and importance
for our planet. He encourages readers to appreciate and protect this unique
part of the world, while also contemplating our own place within the wider
natural environment.
“Arctic Dreams” showcases Lopez’s mastery of nature writing, his passion for
environmental conservation, and his ability to inspire wonder and admiration for
the natural world.

“Refuge: An Unnatural History of Family and Place”

Introduction:
Terry Tempest Williams is an American author, naturalist, and environmental
activist. Born on September 8, 1955, in Salt Lake City, Utah, Williams has gained
recognition for her poignant and lyrical explorations of the natural world and its
intersection with human experiences.
Williams has written numerous books, essays, and poetry collections that blend
personal memoir, nature writing, and social commentary. Her works often delve
into environmental issues, feminism, and the connection between humans and
the natural environment. She is known for her expressive prose and her ability to
twist together personal narratives with broader ecological and social concerns.
One of her most acclaimed works is “Refuge: An Unnatural History of Family and
Place.” Published in 1991, the book combines memoir, natural history, and
environmental advocacy to explore the author’s experiences growing up in Utah,
particularly in relation to the Great Salt Lake and the Bear River Migratory Bird
Refuge.
In “Refuge,” Terry Tempest Williams reflects on her mother’s battle with cancer,
which she believes was caused by exposure to nuclear fallout from weapons
testing in the Nevada desert. She intertwines her personal family history with the
ecological degradation of the Great Salt Lake ecosystem, highlighting the
interconnectedness of personal and environmental health.
She says,
“The losses I Encountered at the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge as Great Salt
Lake was rising helped me to face the losses within my family”
The author, Terry Tempest Williams, discusses how the environment is changing
and how these changes impact people. She believes that humans need to change
how they interact with the earth and view themselves as one species among
many others. This is because humans have dominated the natural world, which
has led to a disconnection from the land and from each other.

Williams argues that by reconnecting with the natural world, humans can regain a
sense of intimacy with the land and with other living beings. This, in turn, can help
to foster a greater sense of community and interconnectedness among people.
Overall, Williams suggests that humans need to change their relationship with the
earth, recognizing that they are part of a larger ecosystem and that their actions
have an impact on the environment and other living beings. By doing so, humans
can create a more sustainable and harmonious world, where all life forms are
valued and respected.
Through her writing, Williams examines the ecological impact of human activities
and the urgent need for environmental stewardship and conservation.
“Refuge” is celebrated for its lyrical prose, emotional depth, and its exploration of
the complex relationships between family, place, and the environment.
Terry Tempest Williams has received numerous awards for her writing, including
the Robert Marshall Award from The Wilderness Society and the John Simon
Guggenheim Fellowship in Creative Arts. She continues to be an influential voice
in environmental literature and a passionate advocate for the protection of the
natural world.
REFERENCES:

1. Oxford advanced learner’s dictionary

2. Alcott,M,L. “Little Woman”,1868,bantam classics, Chapter. 3, Line. 223.
3. Angelou.M. “Woman Work”,1978,Still I Rise, Third Stanza, Line.19-22.
4. Glotfelty.Cl, “The Eco criticism Reader: Landmark Essays in American Literature and the
Environment”, 1996, The Georgia University Press, p. 1.
5. Lopez.B, “Arctic dreams”, 1986 , Stone Hill Publishing, p. 2.
6. Williams.T.T, “Refuge: An Unnatural History of Family and Place”, 1997, Bloomsbury Publishing,
p. 1.