Select the correct answers.
The character Peyton Farquhar in Ambrose Bierce's "An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge" possesses characteristics most closely related to which literary movements? (Choose two).
modernism
romanticism
realism
naturalism
postmodernism
The two correct answers are romanticism and realism.
The character Peyton Farquhar in Ambrose Bierce's "An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge" possesses characteristics most closely related to:
1. Realism
2. Naturalism
To determine which literary movements Peyton Farquhar in Ambrose Bierce's "An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge" possesses characteristics most closely related to, we need to understand the defining features of each movement and analyze the story accordingly. Let's go through each option:
1. Modernism: Modernism is characterized by a focus on experimentation, individualism, and fragmented narratives, often exploring themes of alienation and the disillusionment of the human condition. While "An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge" does contain some unconventional storytelling elements, such as non-linear narrative structure, it does not necessarily align with the core tenets of modernism.
2. Romanticism: Romanticism emphasizes emotions, individualism, imagination, and nature. Peyton Farquhar's character does display elements of intense emotions, such as his yearning for freedom and his desire to be with his family. However, this story is not predominantly focused on the grandeur of nature or the sublime, making it less closely related to Romanticism.
3. Realism: Realism strives to depict life as it is, with a focus on portraying ordinary people and everyday situations realistically. "An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge" is rooted in realism since it primarily tells the story of a civilian caught in the midst of a civil war and facing execution. The detailed depiction of Farquhar's thoughts and emotions before his death contributes to the realist portrayal of his character.
4. Naturalism: Naturalism is an extension of realism, with an emphasis on portraying characters as products of their environment and subject to forces beyond their control. While Farquhar is indeed a product of his time and circumstances, the story does not deeply explore the deterministic aspects or the harsh realities typically associated with naturalism.
5. Postmodernism: Postmodernism is characterized by a self-conscious awareness of the limitations of language, conventions, and traditional narratives. "An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge" predates the postmodern movement, so it would not possess characteristics related to postmodernism.
Based on the analysis above, the two most fitting literary movements that align with Peyton Farquhar's character and the story are:
- Realism: because the story focuses on depicting the character's experiences and emotions in a realistic manner.
- Romanticism: although not as prominent as realism, there are elements of intense emotion and individualism in Farquhar's character.
Therefore, the correct answers are: realism and romanticism.