Classic American Literature Short Stories
The United States is known for producing some of the most iconic and celebrated pieces of literature in the world. From novels to short stories, the country is home to some of the most talented writers who have influenced modern literature. Classic American literature short stories have a unique way of presenting American life and culture through different themes, including hope, despair, love, and death.
“The Tell-Tale Heart” by Edgar Allan Poe
A hallmark of classic American literature, “The Tell-Tale Heart” is a short story written by the renowned writer and poet Edgar Allan Poe. The story follows an unnamed narrator who is consumed by guilt after murdering an old man. The narrator’s conscience leads him to reveal his crime to the police, and the story ends with him confessing to the murder. The story is a true masterpiece that delves into the dark side of human nature.
“The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson
“The Lottery” is a short story written by Shirley Jackson and was first published in The New Yorker magazine. The story details a small town’s annual ritual in which a person is chosen at random to be stoned to death. The story is a chilling representation of how people can be influenced by tradition and blindly follow the crowd without questioning their actions.
“The Yellow Wallpaper” by Charlotte Perkins Gilman
“The Yellow Wallpaper” is a short story by Charlotte Perkins Gilman that explores the oppressive nature of gender roles and how they affect women’s lives. The story follows a woman who is confined to her bedroom and forbidden to write, read or engage in any kind of physical activity. Over time, she becomes obsessed with the yellow wallpaper in her room and imagines a woman trapped inside the intricate pattern. The story is an important commentary on how mental illness was treated in the late 19th and early 20th century.
“The Gift of the Magi” by O. Henry
“The Gift of the Magi” is a short story by O. Henry that highlights the true meaning of love, sacrifice, and giving. The story follows a young couple, Jim and Della, who are struggling financially but want to give each other the perfect Christmas gift. Each of them makes a sacrifice and sells their most prized possession to buy a gift for the other. The story is a heartwarming representation of selflessness and love.
“The Snows of Kilimanjaro” by Ernest Hemingway
“The Snows of Kilimanjaro” is a short story by Ernest Hemingway that explores themes of regret, loss, and death. The story follows a writer, Harry, who is dying from an infected wound while on safari in Africa. As he lies dying, he reflects on his life choices and regrets, including his failed relationships and inability to write the stories he always wanted to tell. The story is a poignant representation of how we often don’t appreciate life until it’s too late.
In conclusion, classic American literature short stories have a unique way of presenting American life and culture through its themes and characters. These five stories are just a small sample of the vast array of brilliant works written by American authors. They continue to inspire and impact readers to this day, reminding us of the power of storytelling and the human experience.