Postmodern literature frequently depicts disorder and brutality as a response to, and critique of, established norms and historical narratives. This manifestation often appears through fragmented storylines, unreliable narrators, and the blurring of reality and fiction. For example, works might showcase characters grappling with societal breakdown or psychological trauma, mirroring a world perceived as unstable and unpredictable.
The emphasis on societal upheaval and aggressive acts within these narratives serves multiple functions. It challenges traditional notions of heroism and morality, prompting audiences to question conventional values. Furthermore, it provides a space for exploring the consequences of conflict and the impact of instability on the human psyche. This trend gains prominence in the latter half of the 20th century, influenced by major historical events such as World War II, the Cold War, and various social movements that disrupted established orders.
