Reflections on SLS 303 Modern Cultures Course

Bayan Khalil, Verrazzano Class of 2024, completed major in SLS Early Childhood

When I reflect on the materials from the SLS 303 Modern Cultures course alongside my own time and culture, I notice the striking parallels that shed light on contemporary issues that are all around us. Exploring modernist literature like Virginia Woolf's works reveals profound insights into the human consciousness and societal expectations that are put upon us. Characters like Clarissa Dalloway and Septimus Warren Smith mirror struggles that are still faced by individuals today, such as isolation, identity, and pressure to conform. These themes resonate deeply in our world which is dominated by social media and the superficial connections that we seek.

Woolf advocated for the right of women's education and empowerment and this is part of ongoing discussions on gender equality in our current society. She challenged a society that often marginalized women's voices to show the importance of education and empowerment and she succeeded. These are seen as pillars of progress and change.

Freud's psychoanalytic theories offer valuable insights into the complexities of human behavior. While Franz Kafka's "The Metamorphosis" reveals insights into the human consciousness and our societal expectations, with Freud's theories being applied we see just how much human behavior is affected through childhood. People often view his ideas critically today, but his emphasis on the unconscious and early childhood experiences still influences contemporary psychology and is still used today. When reading his work, you can instantly feel a connection to our lives in the present day. I see parallels between Freud's concepts with how people deal with individual struggles with their unresolved issues and traumas, while they are often unaware of their underlying motivations.

When you look at art and literature from the modernist period through the work of artists like Picasso and writers like Woolf, it is obvious that there is a shared spirit of rebellion against societal norms they faced. Picasso's cubism and Woolf's stream-of-consciousness writing were groundbreaking in their era, and are reminiscent of today's movements advocating for diversity and breaking down barriers. Modernism pushed boundaries and challenged traditions, aligning with today's cultural landscape. The modernist movement reminds us of the importance of artistic expression and innovation in shaping society.

Overall, the materials from SLS 303 provided me with valuable insights that remain prevalent in my own time and society. Engaging with Woolf, Freud, Kafka and other modernist figures deepens my understanding of the human experience and their enduring impact on navigating contemporary life.