Poetic Myths: Poetry, Nationalism, and the War of 1812
Abstract
The Star Spangled Banner is one of the best known patriotic songs in the United States, however, most people do not know it originated as a poem during a much understudied, but highly influential time. The Star Spangled Banner is one of several poems that helped build unity in America during and after the War of 1812. This project analyzes early 19th century American poetry and the influence it had on building foundational ideologies of American nationalism. Utilizing Benedict Anderson’s theory of imagined communities, nationalism is approached as a myth fabricated to build unity within a nation. This project focuses on the role poetry played in creating that myth by using primary texts, to explore and analyze the different themes, words, and styles used to convey poetry to the populace between 1812 and 1829. This project shows ideas, beliefs, and social and political ideologies prevalent among those with the influence to get their voices heard - most notably white males. This study helps provide a general understanding of how national unity is built.
Poetic Myths: Poetry, Nationalism, and the War of 1812
The Star Spangled Banner is one of the best known patriotic songs in the United States, however, most people do not know it originated as a poem during a much understudied, but highly influential time. The Star Spangled Banner is one of several poems that helped build unity in America during and after the War of 1812. This project analyzes early 19th century American poetry and the influence it had on building foundational ideologies of American nationalism. Utilizing Benedict Anderson’s theory of imagined communities, nationalism is approached as a myth fabricated to build unity within a nation. This project focuses on the role poetry played in creating that myth by using primary texts, to explore and analyze the different themes, words, and styles used to convey poetry to the populace between 1812 and 1829. This project shows ideas, beliefs, and social and political ideologies prevalent among those with the influence to get their voices heard - most notably white males. This study helps provide a general understanding of how national unity is built.