Short Fiction: Characters & Conflict

It forces authors into explaining themes explicitly so as not to confuse readers with subtleties.

It invites multiple interpretations that can lead to diverse discussions on its underlying themes.

As a wealthy connoisseur

As an indifferent acquaintance

As a loyal friend

As a helpful mentor

Foil

Antagonist

Archetype

Protagonist

Man vs Technology

Man vs Self

Man vs Nature

Man vs Society

It leads readers toward a single, unambiguous understanding of how characters relate to one another.

It challenges readers to infer underlying dynamics and form personal interpretations of those relationships.

It diminishes reader interest due to lack of clarity in interpersonal connections within the narrative.

It provides explicit cues that guide readers towards an author-intended reading of relationships only.

Internal conflict

Natural conflict

External conflict

Societal conflict

The collapse of monarchies across Europe mirrors Paul’s loss of faith in authority figures like teachers and military leaders.

The global scale of participation emphasizes Paul's sense of anonymity among millions affected by war policies beyond their control.

The use of propaganda campaigns underscores Paul’s internal battle with reconciling nationalistic ideology with wartime reality.

The technological advancements leading to unprecedented battlefield horrors highlight Paul’s struggle with dehumanization and alienation from civilian life.

They embody values or ideas in opposition to those of the protagonist.

They do not serve any purpose in relation to the story's theme.

They symbolize primal instincts erupting within the boys leading to chaotic breakdowns of social order.

Their roles are eliminated to beasts of burden symbolizing work ethic and cooperative survival strategies amongst themselves.

They exist merely as background decoration adding realistic detail to the island setting and atmosphere.

Animals are represented only as food sources providing survival challenges for the boys on the island.

Montresor wants to impress his allies.

Fortunato insulted him.

Montresor is jealous of Fortunato's wealth.

Montresor seeks fame and recognition.