Winesburg, Ohio

Winesburg, Ohio features several female protagonists, all of whom, Anderson suggests, have rich inner lives that push back against the social norms and conventions of the early 20th century. However, these women are often depicted through the perspective of the book’s male characters rather than their own. Discuss the narrative lens of Sherwood Anderson’s collection with regard to gender. Consider the historical context of the first wave of the feminist movement that emerged at the turn of the century in your response.

“The Book of Grotesque” introduces a tension between the concepts of truth and beauty. Consider Anderson’s portrayal of morally reprehensible characters throughout the book and discuss how he reconciles this tension from a humanist perspective. Is it possible to find beauty in terrible people? Cite specific examples from the text to support your argument.

Anderson uses religion as a recurring motif in the stories “Godliness,” “The Strength of God,” and “Tandy.” Does Anderson present a positive or negative perspective on the influence of religion in the small-town community? Cite specific examples from the text to support your argument.