Lewis, Clark, and The Romatics
The nineteenth century was a time full of adventure and discovery led predominantly by men. Much of the literature written at this time in America mimicked that theme. A man would venture into unknown territory, fight treacherous villains, be proclaimed a hero, and of course save a damsel in distress. This type of literature was called Romantic, which also put a large emphasis on the beauty of nature. “Romanticism is seen as a response to the Enlightenment.” (4) It makes sense that the literature was the way that it was during this time period. Americans were essentially looking for someone to liberate them from British rule so they could finally experience freedom. It was all about the “heroism” and superiority of the American man. Lewis and
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While on this expedition she acted as not only a translator but a key team member on the expedition. She was able to get the men horses, save their lives, and birth a child all while keeping herself out of danger (Ambrose). Yet, when the men talk about her they just talk about her beauty and how they are shocked that she’s not a savage like the rest of the Native Americans. They make it seem as though they rescued her rather than her rescuing them. Also, when they make it back out of the west everyone is compensated except for Sacagawea, aka the damsel in distress.
The expeditions of Lewis and Clark prompted many to further explore and west and beyond. It also made Americans feel a new level of respect for nature. Overall the Romantic Period boosted the confidence of the people. They realized that they didn’t need science to be great. In addition to the realization it also put men on a pedestal as heros who are meant to save women. It goes hand in hand with what is going on at the time. Americans are looking to be liberated from the crushing grip of Great