Final answer:
Authors develop the theme of individuality versus societal pressure through characters and narratives that highlight the tension between self-expression and conformity. Works by Thoreau, Orwell, Ellison, and Emerson are classic examples of this theme, as they challenge the status quo and advocate for personal freedom and resistance to mass conformity.
Step-by-step explanation:
Authors often explore the theme of man's struggle to maintain individuality within modern society by placing their characters in situations where they must confront societal or government pressures. For example, Thoreau in his works 'On the Duty of Civil Disobedience' and 'Walden' presents the concept of living freely from governmental and societal expectations, which he termed as the two freedoms. His ideas inspire readers to consider their sense of self and individual freedom.
In a similar vein, George Orwell's '1984' paints a grim picture of a dystopian society where individual thought is suppressed by a totalitarian government. Likewise, Ralph Ellison's 'Invisible Man' discusses the struggles of an African American man seeking his identity in a city where his existence is virtually ignored. These narratives underscore the notion that individuality is often at odds with conformity and the collective structures of society.
Cultural narratives, such as those found in literature, television, and other media, further reflect the tension between conformity and individuality. Emerson's 'Self-Reliance' and Alexis de Tocqueville's 'Democracy in America' both critique the prevailing sentiment of the time that favored conformity over individual expressions of freedom and independence. These themes remain prevalent and are used to question the true meaning of the American dream.