A Comparison Of Contemporary And Romance Literature
...form of a short story consists of a plot,
characters, point of view, setting, and theme (2). These elements can vary a
great deal from one story to the next. An author of a short story also reveals
a tone and a mood shown by his or her style of writing. Although romance
literature contains the elements mentioned above, they are very different than
those in short stories and are somewhat static from one tale to the next.
Romance literature is about the adventures of knights and the organization of
chivalry (794). A romance does not take place in a normal setting, but in
idealized worlds such as imaginary castles, gardens, or forests (794). A
romance contains mysterious and supernatural events (794). Although there are
many differences between contemporary and romance literature, the one difference
that distinguishes them the most is the characters. A main character in
contemporary literature leads a very different life than one in romance
literature.
Neighbor Rosicky is a short story of an old farmer, Anton Rosicky,
reflecting back on his life. Early in the story, when Anton Rosicky is in the
doctor's office, he learns that he has a bad heart and doesn't have much time
left to live. He then returns home, plunges into a chair, and begins to sew.
While he sews, Rosicky lets his mind run back over his life. He has had many
memorable experiences. Rosicky has lived in London, New York, and now in
Nebraska. Rosicky, formerly a tailor, now makes a living farming with his
children. Rudolph, Rosicky's oldest son, has some trouble supporting his wife,
Polly. Rosicky makes many sacrifices to help Rudolph's marriage stay together.
He loans the family car and gives some money to Rudolph, even though Rosicky is
very poor...
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