CHARACTERISTICS OF THE TRAGIC IN O. HENRY'S SHORT STORIES

Nguyen Thi Kieu Oanh, Nguyen Truong Duy

Abstract


This article focuses on analyzing the tragic in O. Henry's short stories, a prominent characteristic of his artistic style. By exploring elements such as plot situations, characters, and story endings, the research clarifies how O. Henry expresses tragedy not merely as suffering or loss, but also as the struggle between dreams and reality, hope and disillusionment. Simultaneously, the results also indicate that, even in tragic situations, O. Henry's short stories still contain profound humanistic values concerning love, compassion, and sacrifice. Thus, the research contributes to highlighting the aesthetic value and social significance of the tragic element in O. Henry's short stories.

 

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Keywords


American short story, humanistic values, O. Henry, the tragic, unexpected ending

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References


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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.46827/ejls.v6i2.631

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