Commonalities:
* Modernist Period: They all wrote during the Modernist period in English literature (roughly 1890-1940). This era was marked by a break from traditional literary conventions and a focus on:
* Experimentation with form and language: We see this in Joyce's stream of consciousness in "Ulysses," Woolf's fragmented narrative in "Mrs. Dalloway," and Yeats's innovative use of symbolism and myth.
* Exploration of inner consciousness: They delved into the complexities of human psychology, exploring themes of memory, identity, and the subconscious.
* Rejection of Victorian values: This included a move away from sentimentalism and towards a more realistic and often bleak view of the world.
* Reaction to World War I: Owen's war poetry stands out, but the war's impact on society and the disillusionment it fostered resonated deeply with all of these writers.
* Social Commentary: They all addressed social issues of their time, including class, gender roles, and the changing nature of society.
* Focus on Individuality: Each writer emphasized the unique experiences and perspectives of individuals, often challenging societal norms.
Distinguishing Factors:
* Genre: While they all wrote prose and poetry, they had different primary genres.
* Owen: Primarily war poetry.
* Yeats: Lyric poetry, plays, and essays.
* Joyce: Novels and short stories.
* Lawrence: Novels, short stories, and essays.
* Woolf: Novels and essays.
* Style: Each writer had a distinctive style and approach to language.
* Themes: While all shared some common concerns, each writer explored unique thematic territory.
In short: These writers represent a generation of artists who grappled with the upheaval of the early 20th century. They broke new ground in form and content, offering powerful reflections on the human condition in a rapidly changing world.