Back to Show
American Masters
Novel Reflections on the American Dream
Season 21
Episode 1
The American novel is a powerful story. It unifies us, it motivates us, it gives meaning to our lives. It is a story affirming that success in this country is not a matter of inheritance but, rather a matter of determination. It is a story assuring us that we can, indeed, define our own destiny. Yet, experience tells us there is another American story.
Support Provided By
Season
Unlock with PBS Passport
52:55
Discover the life of singer Brenda Lee and her musical hits spanning genres and decades.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:23:57
Explore the story of writer Julia Alvarez, who blazed a trail for a generation of Latino authors.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:23:35
Explore the story of filmmaker Blake Edwards, known for his comedies like the "Pink Panther" series.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:40:39
Discover the intellectual evolution and political legacy of William F. Buckley, Jr.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:43:31
Discover the life and legacy of former U.S. Senator and diplomat Daniel Patrick Moynihan.
Unlock with PBS Passport
53:03
Discover the secrets behind Edward Hopper’s most iconic and enigmatic works.
54:31
El artista José Clemente Orozco (1883-1945) encabezó el movimiento muralista en México.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:22:29
Experience the groundbreaking sounds of bebop pioneer and virtuoso composer Max Roach.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:22:12
Trace the life and legacy of labor activist Cesar Chavez through music and the arts.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:22:45
Follow the 50-year career of First Amendment lawyer and legal expert Floyd Abrams.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:33:44
Experience the political and personal journey of California governor Jerry Brown.
1:29:31
Experience the meteoric rise and enduring legacy of Little Richard.