2 sentencesYour teacher will review your response to ensure you receive proper credit for your answer. Explain how Ambrose Bierce's use of foreshadowing or flashback influences "An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge." Select the link to access the Short Answer Rubric.
Ambrose Bierce's use of foreshadowing in "An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge" creates anticipation and tension for readers as they anticipate a major event or revelation. His use of flashbacks, on the other hand, provides crucial background information that helps readers understand the protagonist's state of mind and motivations.
In "An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge," Ambrose Bierce's use of foreshadowing and flashback enhances the suspense and overall impact of the story. Through carefully placed hints and glimpses into the protagonist's past, Bierce prepares the reader for a shocking twist ending, making the story more engaging and thought-provoking. Access the Short Answer Rubric for detailed evaluation of your response by your teacher.
In order to explain how Ambrose Bierce's use of foreshadowing or flashback influences "An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge," it would be helpful to understand the basic definitions of foreshadowing and flashback.
Foreshadowing is a literary technique in which an author hints at or suggests future events in a story, creating suspense or anticipation for the reader. In the case of "An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge," Bierce uses foreshadowing to build tension and create a sense of impending doom. One example of foreshadowing in the story is when Peyton Farquhar, the main character, notices the ticking of his watch becoming louder and more distinct as he awaits execution. This foreshadows the final moment of his life, as the ticking of the watch stops when he is hanged. By employing foreshadowing, Bierce engages the reader's imagination, making them curious about what will happen next.
On the other hand, flashback is a literary device in which an author interrupts the present narrative to take the reader back in time, typically to provide background information or context. In "An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge," Bierce utilizes flashback to provide insight into Peyton Farquhar's past and motivations. As Farquhar stands on the bridge awaiting his execution, his thoughts wander to the events that led him to this point. Through flashback, readers learn about Farquhar's support for the Confederacy during the American Civil War and his decision to attempt sabotage against Union forces. The flashback sequences shed light on the character's motivations and illuminate the circumstances that led to his current predicament. By incorporating flashbacks, Bierce adds depth and complexity to the story, allowing readers to connect with the protagonist on a more personal level.
Overall, Bierce's strategic use of foreshadowing and flashback in "An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge" enhances the narrative by creating anticipation, building tension, and providing crucial backstory for the protagonist.