Respond to ONE of the following questions.
(a) Define the term conflict as it relates to literature and explain its importance in narrative writing. Briefly describe the different types of internal and external conflict. Then choose ONE short story or poem you read for this course. Explain how the author introduces, develops, and resolves a major conflict in this narrative.
(b) Recall what you have learned about different genres, or types, of narratives and how to analyze a narrative. Then choose ONE short story you read for this course. State the author’s purpose for writing the story (to inform or explain, to describe, to persuade, or to entertain) and summarize the main idea. Briefly discuss the techniques the author used (such as figurative language or metaphor). Evaluate the effectiveness of these techniques in achieving the author’s purpose.
(c) Identify a major theme in ONE of the stories or poems you read for this course. State the theme in a complete sentence. Then explain how the author develops this theme throughout the story or poem through plot events, character development, dialogue, and other story elements.
(b) Recall what you have learned about different genres, or types, of narratives and how to analyze a narrative. Then choose ONE short story you read for this course. State the author’s purpose for writing the story (to inform or explain, to describe, to persuade, or to entertain) and summarize the main idea. Briefly discuss the techniques the author used (such as figurative language or metaphor). Evaluate the effectiveness of these techniques in achieving the author’s purpose.
One short story that I read for this course is "The Story of an Hour" by Kate Chopin. The author's purpose for writing this story is to entertain and explore the theme of freedom and liberation. The main idea of the story is the shocking revelation that Mrs. Mallard experiences upon learning about her husband's death and the subsequent realization that she now has the freedom to live for herself.
Chopin uses various techniques to effectively achieve her purpose in entertaining and exploring the theme. One technique she employs is the use of irony, specifically situational irony. The readers are led to believe that Mrs. Mallard is devastated by her husband's death, but as the story progresses, it is revealed that she feels a sense of liberation and freedom instead. This creates an unexpected twist that engages and entertains the readers.
Furthermore, Chopin utilizes imagery to vividly depict Mrs. Mallard's emotions and inner conflict. Through descriptive language, she paints a picture of Mrs. Mallard's intense joy and the newfound sense of self that she experiences. This creates a strong connection between the reader and the protagonist, allowing the readers to emotionally engage with the story.
Overall, the techniques used by Chopin, such as situational irony and imagery, are highly effective in achieving the author's purpose of entertaining the readers and exploring the theme of freedom. The unexpected turn of events and the vivid descriptions help to captivate the readers and convey the profound emotions experienced by Mrs. Mallard.