The Short Story
Close Reading Paper
Due 10/14/18
Instructions: In class, we have discussed 1) what a short story is and 2) how it works. The short stories functions
as an artistic and philosophical way to create stories about history, culture, and values/beliefs. The reason the
short story is unique is because of the ways in which the short story can reinvent and challenge old traditions in
regards to “beauty” in literary form. The short story becomes a means of which to process the human
experience.
We have also discussed various ways in which to analyze the topics and themes found in short stories. We have
discussed Literary Criticism in the forms of: Structuralism, Romanticism, Modernism, New Historicism, and
Post-Colonialism. For your close reading paper, you have the option to use these ideas. As per the instructions
found in the syllabus, you will have the freedom to choose your own text that falls into the genre of short story.
This essay must be 3-4 pages long double-spaced, use MLA citation. The syllabus indicates that the short
story must be chosen from the textbook, if you wish to choose another short story, you must see me to
have it approved. The purpose of this assignment is to familiarize you, through practice, with close reading to
base your interpretation and analysis of a particular text.
You must answer the following questions/directions in your close reading essays:
1) How is the story you chose going with or against the formal rules/beliefs of literature (this is based on
our reading of Aristotle).
2) Identify specific symbols (characters, plot devices, themes, etc…) that are mentioned in the story that are
either being perpetuated or disrupted in the space of the story.
3) Chose a Literary/Critical lens that aligns with the themes in the story and explain why you believe this?