Make a list of characteristics of the Modern and Contemporary Periods.

This question is actually very hard to answer in regard to
one aspect...the Contemporary Period. Given that the Contemporary period is "now", the
characteristics are, basically, yet to be determined.

The
Contemporary Period, given it is a current movement, is happening now. Therefore, until
a new movement begins, it is very hard to actually define the typical characteristics of
Contemporary writers. That being said, one could begin to define what the typical themes
of this movement are.

Today's writers seem to be defined by
their ability to speak to the new generation of readers. The genre is filled by the
influence of today's media and trends. For example, the supernatural movement has
exploded in the last 10 years (think Harry Potter and
Twilight). Another typical theme of this period deals with the
struggles of today's youth (think The Hunger Games and
Crank).

The Contemporary movement is
then defined by all types of characterizations, themes, and (unfortunately) stereotypes
and generalizations. Fortunately, the Contemporary period has allowed new readers to
find material in which they can relate to- bullying, alienation, self-preservation, and
escape.

As for the Modern Literary Period, this movement is
much easier to define given it has already existed and been defined by critics and
readers alike.

Typical characteristics of the Modern Period
include the quest for the "American Dream" (which includes pride in Nationalism and
individualism) while embracing optimism in ones own future and dreams. Given this period
began with the onset of a new century (1900s), literature and arts focused on
technological advancement and class control because of the ever changing
population.