Angle of Repose Theme of Technology and Modernization

Spanning from the early days of the Wild West to the rollicking 1970s, Angle of Repose is a firsthand lesson in the development of the modern era. We see the Industrial Age, which transforms rural America into a manufacturing behemoth. We see the rise of suburbia, which moves the country even further away from its farmland roots. And that's just scratching the surface. Although Lyman Ward isn't exactly enthused about all of these changes, his snarky attitude helps us better understand the consequences of modernization.

1. How does Oliver contribute to the modernization of America?
2. Does Lyman like modern American culture? Why or why not?
3. In what ways do Shelly and Rodman represent modern America?
4. What does Lyman mean when he says that being a "modern" and "one-legged" man are similar?