Effects of Realism in An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge and The Yellow Wallpaper

Introduction

In American literature, the movement of realism sought to capture the complexities and realities of human existence during the 19th century. Authors embraced a stark departure from romanticism, choosing instead to present a more authentic portrayal of society and the human psyche. Two prominent works that epitomize the realism movement are Ambrose Bierce's "An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge" and Charlotte Perkins Gilman's "The Yellow Wallpaper." These short stories, with their distinct narrative styles, vividly portray the psychological aspects of their characters, delving into the effects of realism on the reader's perception of the human experience.

This essay will explore the effects of realism in both stories by examining their themes, character development, and narrative techniques, while also drawing upon various academic sources to provide a comprehensive analysis.

Themes of Realism

Both "An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge" and "The Yellow Wallpaper" are replete with themes that reflect the stark realism of the time. In Bierce's work, the central theme revolves around the futility and brutality of war.

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The story unfolds during the American Civil War, and the author unflinchingly portrays the horrors of conflict through the protagonist, Peyton Farquhar. As Farquhar faces imminent death by hanging, his inner thoughts, fears, and desperation expose the harrowing impact of war on the human psyche.

Gilman's "The Yellow Wallpaper" delves into the theme of women's oppression and their stifled existence in a patriarchal society. The protagonist, an unnamed woman suffering from postpartum depression, is confined to an isolated room with a revolting yellow wallpaper.

Through her descent into madness, Gilman presents a realistic depiction of the mental strain endured by women during a time when they were often subjugated to societal norms.

Character Development

Characterization plays a pivotal role in highlighting the realism in both stories. Bierce crafts Peyton Farquhar as a multifaceted character, illustrating the internal conflict he faces in the face of death. As Farquhar's life flashes before his eyes, the reader witnesses a vivid portrayal of a man torn between his desire for survival and his duty to his ideals. This complex portrayal of Farquhar adds depth to the story and resonates with the readers' understanding of the human condition.

Similarly, Gilman's portrayal of the unnamed protagonist in "The Yellow Wallpaper" offers a poignant examination of the effects of societal constraints on an individual's mental state. The woman's descent into madness is a harrowing journey, reflecting the immense pressure society puts on women to conform to their assigned roles. Her internal struggle, compounded by her isolation and lack of agency, makes her a tragic and relatable character.

Narrative Techniques

The narrative techniques employed in these stories enhance the effect of realism on readers. In "An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge," Bierce utilizes a non-linear narrative, jumping between the present and Farquhar's imagined escape, blurring the lines between reality and illusion. This technique immerses readers into Farquhar's mind, emphasizing the disorienting and haunting nature of war. By the story's climax, the boundary between reality and delusion is blurred, leaving readers questioning their own perception of truth.

Gilman's "The Yellow Wallpaper" adopts a first-person perspective, providing an intimate and raw account of the protagonist's mental deterioration. Through her journal entries, the reader is privy to her innermost thoughts and feelings, making the narrative deeply personal. The use of the first-person perspective further accentuates the theme of women's oppression and the detrimental impact of societal expectations on mental health.

Effect on Readers' Perception

The use of realism in both stories leaves a lasting impact on readers' perception of the human experience. By confronting the harsh realities of war in "An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge," readers are forced to confront the darker aspects of humanity and the trauma that war inflicts upon individuals. Bierce's unapologetic portrayal of Farquhar's impending execution serves as a poignant reminder of the brutal consequences of war, challenging readers to reflect on the futility of violence.

On the other hand, "The Yellow Wallpaper" compels readers to question the role of women in society and the ramifications of suppressing individuality. Gilman's exploration of the protagonist's descent into madness lays bare the consequences of denying women their autonomy and agency. The story serves as a powerful critique of patriarchal norms and encourages readers to reevaluate the treatment of women in society.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the effects of realism in "An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge" and "The Yellow Wallpaper" are profound and far-reaching. Both Bierce and Gilman masterfully employ themes, character development, and narrative techniques to present an unflinching depiction of the human experience during the 19th century. The realistic portrayal of war's brutality in Bierce's work and the haunting exploration of women's oppression in Gilman's story leave readers with a deep sense of introspection. The power of realism lies in its ability to confront readers with uncomfortable truths, challenging societal norms and prompting critical reflection on the human condition. Through these stories, both authors have contributed to the enduring legacy of realism in American literature and its influence on shaping our understanding of the complexities of human existence.