The 20th century was a transformative period for literature, marked by diverse movements and styles. Writers explored new themes, such as identity, alienation, and the impact of technology. Notable movements included Modernism, which broke traditional forms, and Postmodernism, characterized by irony and playfulness. Key authors like Virginia Woolf, James Joyce, and F. Scott Fitzgerald pushed boundaries with innovative narrative techniques. The century also saw the rise of genres like science fiction and magical realism, reflecting societal changes and global conflicts. Overall, 20th-century literature significantly shaped contemporary thought and artistic expression.