American Dream essays

This section includes a wide range of essay examples on the subject of the American Dream. You may also find helpful essays in our sections on ‘A Raisin in the Sun‘, ‘The Great Gatsby‘ and ‘Death of a Salesman‘. All three books illustrate how the pursuit of the American Dream can sometimes lead to heartache, disappointment, and disillusionment. Scroll down for an analysis on the American dream and writing essays on this topic.

Explore the American Dream in Literature

by

 American Dream Research Paper 1.Introduction to the American Dream The American Dream has influenced the hopes and future of many Americans. One person’s dream will not be the same as another, because dreams are like snowflakes, there’s never two that are exactly alike. “… each person has the right to pursue happiness- not a … Read more

The Great Gatsby and The Grapes of Wrath – desire for the American dream

by

Fictional texts are a window into an imaginative recreation of the world in which the attitudes and values are exposed. The classic, cynical, fictional novel, The Great Gatsby written by F.Scott Fitzgerald in 1925 retrospectively follows Nick in his journey as he observes his neighbour, Jay Gatsby, in his persevering attempts to attain the affection … Read more

Failure of the American Dream In The Great Gatsby/Of Mice & Men

by

 In the novel ‘The Great Gatsby’ and ‘Of Mice and Men’ F Scott Fitzgerald and John Steinbeck respectively explore the complex perspective of the true outcome of the American Dream. Although set within different eras of American society, the extensive failure of dreams throughout both texts shows how the American Dream is destined for … Read more

Give an outline of how the American Dream is interpreted in texts 2,3 and 4

by

Text 2: Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Perspective In the text Arnold Schwarzenegger has written about the American Dream. Arnold Schwarzenegger tells that the American Dream, no matter what country you are from or who you are. You can be something great and accomplish anything beyond your wildest imagination if you work hard. This statement is aligned with … Read more

The Great Gatsby: F.Scott Fitzgerald’s Critique of the American Dream

by

The Great Gatsby, by F. Scott Fitzgerald, is a novel about one man’s obsession and failure to attain the American dream. Throughout the story, we watch as the character, Jay Gatsby, a man who aspired to achieve wealth and a position among America’s richest to win the heart of his true love Daisy Fay, fail. … Read more

Diverse Perspectives on the American Dream in the Great Gatsby

by

Each character’s unique view on the American Dream is what makes this an intriguing topic. Even though they each had differing perspectives on the idea, their goal was simple: achieve success, prosperity, and accomplish a set goal. This multifaceted exploration of the American Dream provides a rich tapestry of human ambition, disillusionment, and the quest … Read more

Annotated Bibliography: Evolution of American Society (Politics, Culture and Social Change)

by

This collection of articles explores the multifaceted transformation of American society through various lenses, including political evolution, cultural shifts, and social change. From the formation of political parties in the early republic to the significant social movements of the 1920s and the evolving concept of the American Dream, these articles provide a comprehensive look at … Read more

Should the American Dream be taught today?

by

The American Dream, a belief or reality that many people contemplate, is part of the history of America that shows the great importance of opportunity and chances equal to all human beings. Are the values and goals that ancestors have been preaching and teachers have been lecturing still feasible in American society today? This question … Read more

Mad Men's Portrayal of the American Dream and Consumerism

by

 AMC’s Mad Men depicts the day-to-day lives of an American advertising firm located in the prominent district of Madison Avenue, its portrayal of its complex and flawed characters illustrate the attitudes of the same cosmopolitan milieu that has bred them. The shows’ aesthetic and the motivations behind characters surround the theme of the American … Read more

The Great Gatsby / Harlem Renaissance Poem (American Dream)

by

Analyzing Perspectives from Literature and Poetry The Great Gatsby Specific View Jay Gatsby’s pursuit of the American Dream is a central theme in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel The Great Gatsby. However, Gatsby’s version of the American Dream is deeply flawed and ultimately unattainable. Really, there was no “American Dream” for Jay. He was caught up … Read more

The explanation of the American Dream in The Great Gatsby

by

The explanation of the American Dream in The Great Gatsby has two key problems like delusion and actuality. Fitzgerald showed how delusion represents Jay Gatsby as a young American dreamer. “Because Gatsby places all his hope for happiness in Daisy and what it takes to get such a girl he is ultimately ruined by his … Read more

‘One Day at a Time’ (Netflix show) and the American Dream

by

In the popular imagination, the American Dream is the concept that if someone works hard enough, he or she can “make it” in the United States and achieve social mobility. Everyone has a different conception of success and the American Dream; teenagers might want to succeed by conforming to their friends’ expectations, and success for … Read more

The American Dream, today

by

It’s no exaggeration to say that just about every American has at least heard of the term – the American Dream since this concept has always been a popular and dominant theme in United States society. It is the center of the national culture and reflects people’s optimism about equality between individuals. In this report, … Read more

Pursuing the American Dream: The Immigrant Experience and Cruel Optimism

by

Entrepreneurship is the pursuit of opportunities beyond currently controlled resources and can thus be applied to situations outside of a business context. In the pursuit of the American Dream, Americans are entrepreneurial when those with minimal resources actively pursue better opportunities rather than remaining complacent. Cultures form as groups follow the American Dream and attempt … Read more

Definition of the American Dream.

by

 The United States of America, with the commonly known by the name “Land of the free,” is clearly the most diverse country in the world, universe even. However the ideal life for the citizens of the United States, the American dream, is a very controversial topic.  The definition of the American dream is different … Read more

America’s Accusations: Theft of Land, Labor, Resources, & The American Dream

by

America is described as the land of the free to many countries around the world, where hope and success prospers. There are also many people who think of America as evil and accuse it of many indictments. An indictment can be defined as a serious crime or accusation towards someone. Theft of land, Mexican territory, … Read more

My Antonia: Exploring Racism, Social Issues & the American Dream

by

Reading Response In Willa Cather’s My Antonia, the author explores the different viewpoints of settlers in the Midwest. Antonia and her immigrant family experience life out in the country much differently than Jim and his grandparents. With many people looking down on immigrants and questioning how trustworthy they may be, this shows how racism and … Read more

Materialism and the American Dream: An Analysis of Lana Del Rey’s “National Anthem”

by

In a perfect world, America would no longer have societal aspects revolve around the economy. Our natural human instinct leads us to believe that things are going to get better. However, it seems that each day the world actually gets worse and if we look back in history it doesn’t seem like things were much … Read more

Acquire the American Dream: Understanding the Electoral College’s Impact on US Elections

by

 The United States is a favored nation with opportunities and openings numerous nations wish deeply to accomplish. Individuals come into the United States and would like to acquire these rights and improve a life for themselves; they wish to accomplish "The American Dream." Citizens are allowed to cast a ballot, allow their minds to … Read more

Re-Discover the American Dream: A Sociological Analysis

by

 Jack Suchodolski AP Language and Composition Mr. Jon Weller 27 October 2017 Rough Draft of American Dream Essay The American Dream is among the United States’ most recognizable and revered symbols of our national heritage. Celebrated in popular culture, this statement of national purpose has been analyzed by commentators across the broad range of … Read more

The American Dream and Coming of Age in the 1950s

by

The 1950s were a time of angst, isolation, and confusion in juvenile Americans. Stand by Me, Catcher in the Rye, and Rebel Without a Cause all demonstrate juvenile loss of innocence, division between parents and children, and the spiritual aspect of the American dream during the 1950s. The 1986 classic Stand by Me follows four … Read more

Of Mice and Men (isolation, symbolism & the American Dream)

by

John Steinbeck is an American author who often dealt with social and economic issues. He has written many famous novels including The Grapes of Wrath and East of Eden. During the time of the Great Depression, Steinbeck elaborated on the general theme of human nature in his well known novel Of Mice and Men. Discussing … Read more

Mental Health & American Dream in A Raisin in the Sun: Examining Stigmas & Limitations

by

Throughout Lorraine Hansberry’s, A Raisin in the Sun, the positive and negative effects of chasing the American Dream are explored.  A Raisin in the Sun examines the dreams of the Younger family, as the main characters struggle to deal with the oppressive circumstances that rule their lives and impede their respective dreams. Hansberry expresses different … Read more

Analysis of the American Dream in The Great Gatsby

by

Many people believe that money is the answer to all problems, that money equals happiness. The American Dream, to start with nothing and through hard work and determination achieve wealth and happiness. This is evident in the novel The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald. Jay Gatsby certainly believes in the American Dream and that … Read more

Writing an Essay on the American Dream

The American Dream is a multifaceted concept deeply embedded in the cultural, social, and political fabric of the United States. It represents the notion of a land of opportunity where individuals can achieve prosperity and success through hard work and determination. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the origins of the American Dream, its key themes, significant literary and cinematic works that address this topic, and essential keywords for understanding and writing about the American Dream.

Origins of the American Dream

The American Dream’s roots can be traced back to the early days of American colonization. The term itself was popularized by historian James Truslow Adams in his 1931 book, “The Epic of America,” where he described the American Dream as “that dream of a land in which life should be better and richer and fuller for everyone, with opportunity for each according to ability or achievement.”

The concept has its origins in the early colonial period when European settlers came to America seeking religious freedom, economic opportunities, and a chance for a new beginning. The Declaration of Independence (1776) further solidified the idea, with its assertion that “all men are created equal” and endowed with “unalienable Rights” including “Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.”

What is the American Dream?

The American Dream encapsulates the belief that anyone, regardless of background or circumstances, can achieve success and upward social mobility through hard work and perseverance. It is a vision of prosperity and opportunity, emphasizing individual achievement and the possibility of achieving a better life.

However, the American Dream is not a static or universally agreed-upon concept. It has evolved over time and can mean different things to different people. For some, it is about financial success and material wealth; for others, it is about personal freedom, equality, or achieving one’s full potential.

Themes Associated with the American Dream

  1. Opportunity: Central to the American Dream is the idea that the United States offers unique opportunities for success. This includes economic opportunities, educational prospects, and the freedom to pursue one’s goals.
  2. Hard Work and Determination: The belief that success is attainable through hard work and perseverance is a cornerstone of the American Dream. This theme underscores the idea that individual effort and diligence are key to achieving one’s dreams.
  3. Rags to Riches: This narrative emphasizes the possibility of rising from poverty to wealth through hard work and determination. It is epitomized by the stories of self-made individuals who have achieved significant success despite humble beginnings.
  4. Self-Made Success: The notion of being a self-made person, achieving success without relying on inherited wealth or social status, is a significant aspect of the American Dream. It celebrates individual entrepreneurship and innovation.
  5. Equality and Inclusion: The American Dream also encompasses the idea of equal opportunity for all, regardless of race, gender, or socioeconomic background. This theme highlights the ongoing struggles for civil rights and social justice.
  6. Myth and Reality: While the American Dream is an aspirational concept, it is also often critiqued as a myth that is not attainable for everyone due to systemic inequalities and social barriers.

Literary and Cinematic Works on the American Dream

Several books, stories, plays, and films have explored the complexities of the American Dream. Here are some notable examples:

  1. Books:
    • “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald: A critique of the American Dream, this novel explores the illusion of success and the hollowness of materialism.
    • “Of Mice and Men” by John Steinbeck: This novella depicts the harsh realities of pursuing the American Dream during the Great Depression.
    • “Death of a Salesman” by Arthur Miller: A play that examines the failures and disillusionments associated with the American Dream through the life of Willy Loman.
  2. Films:
    • “The Pursuit of Happyness” (2006): Based on a true story, this film highlights the struggles and ultimate success of Chris Gardner, embodying the rags-to-riches narrative.
    • “American Beauty” (1999): This film offers a critical view of the American Dream, revealing the underlying dissatisfaction and disillusionment in suburban life.
    • “The Grapes of Wrath” (1940): Based on Steinbeck’s novel, this film portrays the plight of Dust Bowl migrants seeking a better life in California.
  3. Plays:
    • “A Raisin in the Sun” by Lorraine Hansberry: This play explores the dreams and struggles of an African American family in Chicago, highlighting themes of racial discrimination and aspiration.

Keywords for Understanding the American Dream

  • Immigrants: Immigrants have historically been seen as integral to the American Dream, bringing new energy and ambition to the country.
  • Attainable: This keyword addresses the feasibility of achieving the American Dream and the factors that influence its attainability.
  • Real: This examines the authenticity and practicality of the American Dream in contemporary society.
  • Definition: Understanding various interpretations and definitions of the American Dream is crucial for a comprehensive essay.

Key Issues and Challenges

While the American Dream remains a powerful and inspirational idea, it is not without its challenges and criticisms. These include:

  1. Economic Inequality: Rising income inequality and the concentration of wealth have raised questions about the attainability of the American Dream for all.
  2. Racism and Discrimination: Systemic racism and discrimination continue to create barriers to success for many individuals and groups.
  3. Gender Inequality: Women often face additional hurdles in achieving the American Dream due to gender bias and disparities in opportunities.
  4. Access to Education: Education is a critical pathway to achieving the American Dream, but access to quality education is not equal for everyone.
  5. Healthcare and Social Safety Nets: Lack of affordable healthcare and insufficient social safety nets can impede individuals’ ability to pursue their dreams.

Conclusion

The American Dream is a complex and evolving concept that has inspired generations of people both within and outside the United States. When writing an essay on the American Dream, it is essential to explore its historical origins, key themes, literary and cinematic representations, and the various challenges associated with achieving it. By addressing these elements, students can gain a deeper understanding of the American Dream and its significance in American culture and society.

This guide provides a comprehensive framework for analyzing and writing about the American Dream, helping students to engage critically with this enduring and multifaceted idea.