American Landscape and Social Attitudes

Paper Summary:

American attitudes towards nature have undergone a complex change in a relatively short period of time, ranging from attitudes of reverence for nature to a view of nature as handmaiden to the technological development. This paper shows that many environmentalists are of the opinion that America is neglecting the preservation of the environment. The societal attitudes within America are often reflected directly in their attitudes towards nature. However, the attitude towards the natural environment has never been clear-cut, and there has always been a certain amount of ambivalence towards nature. The paper examines how this ambivalence is reflected in the work of artists and writers, such as Jack London.

From the Paper:

"A sociological and socio-cultural view sees London's works as related to the cultural trends, mores, and traits of the time. This can be seen in the well-known story "To Build a Fire", which is often called the "quintessential" naturalist short story. The reflection of differences and dichotomies in American society can be seen in an analysis of the story. One of the most important themes in the naturalist movement, and also the crux of the novel "To Build a Fire," is determinism as opposed to free will. Another is the seemingly amoral indifference of nature and the environment, which is coupled with issues of survival and the problem of making moral judgments in an amoral universe. Another aspect is instinct versus the intellect."

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