Broadly, American literature encompasses:
* Works written by authors who are American citizens or residents. This includes writers born in the United States, naturalized citizens, and immigrants who have made their home in America.
* Texts that explore the American experience. This includes themes of identity, freedom, democracy, race, gender, social justice, and the pursuit of the American Dream. It can also involve the exploration of American landscapes, history, and cultural values.
* Works that are written in the English language. This is a somewhat controversial point, as it excludes literature written by Native American tribes in their own languages, as well as works written by immigrants in languages other than English.
However, the definition can be further nuanced depending on:
* Historical context: American literature has evolved alongside the nation itself, reflecting its changing social, political, and cultural landscape.
* Genre: American literature includes a wide array of genres, from poetry and fiction to drama and nonfiction.
* Critical interpretation: The meaning and significance of American literature are constantly being reinterpreted and debated by literary critics and scholars.
Here are some common themes and concerns often found in American literature:
* The American Dream: This theme explores the pursuit of happiness, success, and individual freedom in America.
* Identity and belonging: Many American writers explore themes of race, ethnicity, gender, and class in relation to American identity.
* The frontier and westward expansion: American literature often reflects the nation's expansion across the continent.
* Social and political change: From the Civil War to the Civil Rights movement, American literature has often responded to and shaped social and political change.
Ultimately, the definition of American literature is fluid and open to interpretation. The best way to understand it is to engage with a wide range of texts and authors, and to consider their individual contributions to the ongoing conversation about what it means to be American.