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A picture is worth a
thousand words. Pictorial maps use symbols or pictures
to represent a theme. Literary maps featuring images of authors,
their works and associated geographical features were popular
in the 20th century. Since the emphasis of these maps was
to depict literary history, they are often slightly inaccurate
in geographic detail. The
Language of the Land: Journeys Into Literary America exhibit
highlights a variety of literary maps that can be useful as
students study regional literature.
Featured Map: Using this 1949 Booklover’s
Map from the Language
of the Land exhibit, let's explore how a pictorial
map might be used in the classroom. Click on the caption
under
the map to link to the complete exhibit list. Click on the
map itself to zoom in for details. Who are the authors
pictured
along the top of the map? Why do you think they were selected
by the mapmaker? What three large cities have insets featuring
authors? Locate authors and books representing YOUR state.
Have you read any of these titles? Are they in your school
or public library collection? Why do you think this map was
published? What 20th century authors would your to add
for YOUR state?
Learning More: Explore the map links on the
left to examine more literary maps. Scroll through the Language
of the Land exhibit object list to locate regional and
state literary maps. Students can use the graphic
organizer to analyze these maps. Participate in the online
U.S.
Literary Map Project. Search the Web using the term “literary
map” for links to more examples of maps of this type.
As a class project, create a literary map of YOUR city or
state.
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