“The American Dream” offers hope that with hard work and dedication, anyone in America can achieve their dreams. Compare or contrast how two of the texts below explore the reality of the American Dream. You can consider either how the dream is real and achievable or how and why it is problematic. Your essay should also consider why examining the American Dream is of importance within discussions of American literature.
“Cat in the Rain”
“The Chrysanthemums”
“Shiloh”
“Thank You, Ma’am”
A Raisin in the Sun
“Sonny’s Blues”
“A White Heron”
“Harlem”
“Dream Variations”
“Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening”