This four-volume reference work surveys American literature from the early 20th century to the present day, featuring a diverse range of American works and authors and an expansive selection of primary source materials.

Bringing useful and engaging material into the classroom, this four-volume set covers more than a century of American literary history-from 1900 to the present. Twentieth-Century and Contemporary American Literature in Context profiles authors and their works and provides overviews of literary movements and genres through which readers will understand the historical, cultural, and political contexts that have shaped American writing.

Twentieth-Century and Contemporary American Literature in Context provides wide coverage of authors, works, genres, and movements that are emblematic of the diversity of modern America. Not only are major literary movements represented, such as the Beats, but this work also highlights the emergence and development of modern Native American literature, African American literature, and other representative groups that showcase the diversity of American letters. A rich selection of primary documents and background material provides indispensable information for student research.

Covers significant authors, including those neglected by history, and their works from major historical and cultural periods of the last century, including authors writing today

Situates authors’ works not only within their own canon but also with the historical and cultural context of the U.S. more broadly

Positions primary documents after specific authors or works, allowing readers to read excerpts critically in light of the entries

Examines literary movements, forms, and genres that also pay special attention to multi-ethnic and women writers