Question

Explain what modernism is and show how Trifles by Susan Glaspell demonstrate modernism.

Answer 1

Answer- Modernism can be described as the historical and artistic period which started around 1900s and continued till 1940s. It is considered as a philosphical movement which includes cultural trends and changes. The main factors responsible for modernism were the development of modern industrial societies and the fastest growth of cities.

Susan Keating Glaspell was an American play writer, novelist and actress. She wrote about social issues like gender, modernism and ethics. One of her plays is 'Trifles' that shows how women were treated during the early 1900's. This play demonstrates the modernism by raising social issues related to women's conditions in the society. 'Trifles' is about the perspectives of men and women and social divisions created by the strict gender roles. The issue of gender difference in this play makes it a considerable element of modernism literature.