Henry James and Orange Juice

Yes. 'Tis the day for an American Literature exam.

Just to sum it up for myself (without looking at my notes):
*Naturalism: the world (or the city) is hostile or at least indifferent to human existence. The individual has no control over "fate," et cetera. Based on Herbert Spencer's Ideas derived from Darwin and scientific determinism. Includes "The Open Boat," "South of the Slot," and "Yekl." Naturalism provided somewhat of a dimming effect on Realsim.
*Realism: the dominant literary style in the 2nd half of the 19th century. The post-war society was rapidly changing politically, socially, and economically, and litereature was a great way to record, interpret, and analyze these changes. Dealt with "common" characters, authentic Americans, used region-specific vernacular. Wanted to be accurate. Underscored the developing and thriving cities and the diminishing rural settings in America.

The Genteel tradition: literature of uplift and refinement, distanced from the true American experience in this time. (Like Walt Whitman supposedly?)

*That's the only concept I haven't mastered yet.

Hopefully...I'll be able to use "Yekl," "The Awakening," "Daisy Miller," and "The Little Convent Girl" for my essay analysis.

YIKES.