What is postmodernism?

Postmodernism is a literary movement which is hard to define

Although the exact starting point is debated, it is often said that postmodernism began in the 1960s in Europe and the US. “Post” means “after”, so the name translates to “what came after the modernist movement”. Postmodernism is difficult to define, partly because it has appeared in many fields of study such as literature, art, film, and music. People also debate whether we are still in the postmodern era.

Basically, postmodern fiction rejects the existence of absolute meaning or fixed identity: It is up to us to create meaning in our lives and create our own identities. This may sound depressing and complex, but postmodern texts often embrace this in an optimistic and playful manner. Typical characteristics are black humor, irony, experiments, and the mixing of genres and styles. 

Postmodern authors believe that all great stories have already been told which makes it impossible to create something new. Thus, postmodern fiction uses intertextuality and pastiche to piece together a text that borrows plots, characters, and the like from other works - often with a humorous effect. One example of this is the animation movie Shrek (2001) which borrows from traditional fairy tales as well as modern action movies like The Matrix.

Postmodern characteristics are linked to the historical context

Like other movements within art and literature, Postmodernism is closely linked to its historical context. The world changed dramatically during the 20th century and especially in the second half which corresponds with postmodernism...