Socratic Seminar. Modernism. Magical Realism. Coursework

SUBJECT AND SECTION
PROFESSOR’S NAME
DATE OF SUBMISSION
Modernism
Modernism is a term that pertains to a reformed movement concerning arts, architecture, music, and literature in the period between the 19th Century and 20th Century. In terms of philosophy, the art movement in this period had some influence on its thought. Essentially, this movement is a product of rebellion in the attempt of overthrowing the outdated traditional aspects and was called "avant-garde" initially. This movement was conceived to re-examine every aspect that hinders progress, seeking to find new and better ways. Modernists claimed that the rejection of the old tradition is a way to discover radically innovative ways of creating art along with other aspects. This highlights one’s freedom of expression that stresses experimentation and radicalism and primitivism. Moreover the conventional expectations are often disregarded to startle the viewers or audiences, questioning their preconceptions as depicted in surrealism in art.
Magical Realism
As a response to realism, magical realism was created. Franz Roh, a German art critic, introduced this term in 1925. When it was first used, the term pertains to an art category that does not fall within the strict guidelines of realism. However, this term has become more known when it was used as an artistic movement in Latin America and the Caribbean during the 1940s. During the 1950s, this term was popularized as a literary subgenre by Latin American writers. Despite the variation in content and style in this genre, some characteristics appear in the same manner as observed in different literary pieces. The story includes a certain magical element which is set in a realistic environment. Additionally, by adding in these elements, the line between realistic fiction and fantasy will be blurred out. As compared to the fantasy genre, writers of magical realism genre would intentionally keep the information regarding magic to present them in a natural way such as ordinary daily occurrences, depicting something incredible as normal.
Colette’s The Bracelet
Written by Colette, the story revolves around Madame Augelier and her jewelry. Every year, she receives a new piece of jewelry that is connected with how long their relationship is from her husband as an anniversary gift. She received a bracelet this year and soon realizes that the jewelry bores her. She remembered a blue glass bracelet that she had before and tried to look for a similar one. Upon acquiring the said bracelet, she examined it and ended up in a realization she was no longer that 10-year-old girl who owned the glass bracelet. The plot took place i...